Farewell to the “Firstborn” band

Posted on August 22, 2011 by admin

I’m headed to O’Hare this morning with the “Firstborn” band from our Davao City, Philippines campus for their return flight home. I’m sure Pastor Herley and their family & friends in Davao will be happy to have them back home, but we’re going to miss them at CLC!

During their visit here, they led worship at each CLC campus, and they sang at each service during the Empower Conference. Most importantly, they led worship & Pastor Joel Montes preached at “CHARGE”, our 2011 Youth Camp – and our students fell in love with them!

And why not? These young men are so in love with Jesus and His people, what is there not to love? One quick story to illustrate: on the first day they arrived, when they had been traveling for over 24 hours, we didn’t take them home to rest because we wanted to help them get acclimated to the time change and get over jet-lag sooner. So we brought them to CLC and instead of just sitting around the offices, they went to work assembling some furniture for the building makeover. We all felt bad about having them work like that, so my daughter apologized to them – and they immediately said, “what are you talking about – this is our church, too!” That’s the kind of heart these guys have, and I love it!

I’m especially thrilled about Pastor Joel Montes’ preaching at Camp, as he impressed upon our students the need to spend time with the Lord in daily devotions. in fact, he charged them with a new slogan, which simply says, “No Word, no food” - meaning they shouldn’t eat breakfast until they have first spent time reading their Bible! And it’s working! Our students are on-fire, and because they’re ‘refueling’ every day, I believe it will continue into this school year, for as long as they continue to spend time with the Lord!

We can’t pay for those results. You’ve heard the testimonies yesterday from our youth about the impact of Camp. But I do want to say, “THANKS”, to each of them: Pastor Joel Montes, keyboardist Brian Montes, drummer Nathan Montes, guitarist Erik Lumagsao and bass guitarist Japhet Dayaras – we were BLESSED to have you here, and we look forward to seeing you again in Davao!

(Special thanks also to CLCers Davis & Marisa Ferreria, who hosted the band at their home, which saved CLC hundreds of dollars in hotel & food expense, and to CLCers Fernali & Lilibeth Serrano, who stepped in to host them this past weekend while the Ferreria’s were out of town!)

LtoR: Brian, Nathan, Joel, Erik, Japhet

Firstborn band during Empower 2011

T-minus 30!

Posted on August 18, 2011 by admin

That’s a military & NASA term – the ‘T’ refers to time of a flight or project, and the ‘minus’ refers to the period that comes before that begins.

So what, you ask?

SO…..we are just 30 days away from launching our newest campus, “CLC 1929″!

That’s right: on September 17 at 5pm we’ll kick-off our new worship experience with a target audience of twenty-somethings (thus the name, 19-29). Sam & Taylor Hamstra will be the directors, and Brent McQuay & Ed Marroquin will serve with Sam on the speaking team, while Caleb Baker will lead worship.

NOTE: this service is open to ANYONE of any age – but we’re targeting the under-30 crowd. It’s one way we’re determined to reach the next generation and remain relevant at CLC. (And by having the service here at the Tinley Park campus, we’re saving the expense of launching another location with rent, utilities, etc.) That’s what I call maximizing our investment for the Kingdom!

So with just 30 days left until launch, I’m asking you to tell it to all your friends & co-workers – help us get the Word out! You can also go to our Facebook page and “like” us, so you can stay abreast of the latest news & happenings at CLC 1929.

If you’re interested in being a part of the launch team, please contact Sam Hamstra today-

off to South Bend!

Posted on August 17, 2011 by admin

Got a full day of work and meetings here in the office first, but this afternoon I’ll be headed to our South Bend campus with the worship band from our Davao City, Philippines campus. These young men were SUCH a blessing to our Youth Camp last week, as in Tinley Park during the Empower Conference, so we wanted them to get to see our other campuses. (They’ll be leading worship in Lisle this Sunday).

But I’m excited about tonight, because it’s my first time back in South Bend in waaaaay too long, and I’ve heard such good reports about what God is doing there through the leadership of Pastors Doug & Shanna Neal. It’ll be a fun night of worship with the Filipino’s and some Word from yours truly.

All my South Bend friends, c’mon out tonight at 7pm – looking forward to seeing you again!

Light is good!

Posted on August 16, 2011 by admin

Woke up this morning thinking about the last point of last Sunday’s message – specifically about James 5:16. Didn’t have time to explain it all Sunday, but the Biblical principle that makes confession to another believer so effective is this: light is good!

That’s what God Himself said in Genesis 1:4, whereas darkness in the Bible is synonymous with evil (Mt 6:23; Lk 22:53; Jn 3:19). So when we keep our sins & faults hidden in secret, in effect, we keep them in darkness, which is Satan’s playground! (Ever heard of ‘home-field advantage’?)

But when we confess those faults or sins, we are bringing them into the light, and that’s good! In fact, there’s something about just bringing it out in the open to someone that actually helps to break the power of that thing against us! It’s the message of Proverbs 28:13!

You don’t have to wait for our Life Group kick-off to start doing this – all you need is a trusted friend, who will love you & pray with you instead of judging you.

But as I said Sunday, if you don’t have those kind of relationships right now, I can’t think of a better place to start building them than in a Life Group of believers here at CLC.

Remember: light is good!

Empower 2011 recap

Posted on August 11, 2011 by admin

Well, Empower 2011 is now history, but the rejoicing continues:

I think we had the largest non-special-holiday (not Easter or OneFamily service, etc) attendance in our history, with more than 1,700 different people here on Sunday morning (there were cars parked everywhere!)

We heard 10 full-length messages and another 3 or 4 shorter teachings in just 3 days – and every one of them contained valuable insights & inspiration! You can still order the entire set for $40 on CD’s, plus we will have mp3′s available that you can download to your computer for just $25 – we’ll let you know once they’re available for purchase on our website.

We were brought into the Presence of the Lord by the worship directors/teams from each campus of CLC: (Jon Jones) Tinley Park, (David Danzy) South Bend, (Terrell Wilson) Lisle and (Joel Montes) Davao, as well as Jon’s group, Atmosphere of Heaven!

Most important of all, there were a few people born-again, AND about 35-40 people who were baptized in the Holy Spirit!

Now that’s what I call, ‘empowered’!

I can’t wait for this Sunday, when we kick-off the new series, “LEGACY”, as we explore the values that brought CLC this far & will also take us into the future! Invite a friend to join you!

Tuesday at Empwer 2011

Posted on August 9, 2011 by admin

To answer my own question from this last post, YES!

Honestly, without any hype, exaggeration or ‘preacher-talk’ (sometimes called ‘evangelastically speaking’), Empower 2011 is hard to summarize:

this morning’s teaching from Pastor Bob Yandian about the Queen of Sheba’s visit to Solomon will be required listening for everyone in leadership at CLC-

Pastor Marilyn’s ‘nuggets’ about going beyond the ‘expected’ to instead do the ‘exceptional’ so that God can do the ‘extraordinary’ was worth the entire conference-

Tim Ross only had a few minutes in the pulpit today, but he was, well…..Tim Ross!

Marilyn’s insight & stories tonight about reaping many harvests from the same seed sown was life-changing for me!

Bob’s revelation that Jesus didn’t spit on the blind man, but on the blindness was electrifying!

GET THIS: about 10 people came forward to receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit tonight, and EVERY ONE OF THEM received! (including a young boy who was born-again minutes earlier!)

AND we even heard a Spirit-filled, Filipino rapper!

That’s all I’ve got to say about that.

If you weren’t here, you can order the entire conference on CD for $40. It will also be available soon in mp3 format on our website for a reduced cost if you want to download.

I hope you’ll invite someone to be your guest this Sunday as we begin “LEGACY” – exploring what makes this church tick! See you then-

Monday night Empower Conf.

Posted on August 9, 2011 by admin

Can it keep getting better?

Last night with Pastor Bob Yandian & Pastor Marilyn Hickey was just so full of practical WISDOM – for everyday life, no matter your status!

At the close of the service, Marilyn invited those who wanted to be baptized in the Holy Spirit to come forward, and around 18-20 people were filled! (That’s in addition to a half-dozen or more on Sunday morning when Andrew Wommack was here – so a whole lot of CLCers & our guests have truly been EMPOWERED at these meetings!) Included in that number were several young men & women who’ve grown up at CLC, so it was especially touching for several CLC parents!

I love what God is doing among us – and there are still TWO more opportunities for you to get in on it – this morning at 9:30am and tonight at 7pm – get in the building!

Monday reflections

Posted on August 8, 2011 by admin

Never. Heard. Anything. Like. It.

If you weren’t there this morning, you probably haven’t heard that the flight bringing Pastors Bob Yandian & Marilyn Hickey to Chicago was delayed significantly due to weather issues in Tulsa, and then traffic jams on the Tri-State kept them from reaching CLC until the services were already dismissed.

I don’t think God was surprised.

Actually, HE awakened Tim Ross this morning with an entirely new message just for CLC. Tim brought that at the first morning session, and it was off-the-charts! If you’ve ever felt like God wasn’t acting fast enough on your behalf, or that you’ve been waiting a long time for a promise to be manifest, get the CD!

Then, since our other guests still hadn’t arrived, Tim finally preached the message he intended to bring all along – “Stay in Your Lane”. I’m going to make it required listening for anyone in leadership at CLC in the future – seriously, it was absolutely ridiculous, in the most positive use of that word.

Sure enjoyed worship with the Danzy’s from our South Bend campus and of course, the ‘Firstborn’ band from our Davao, Philippines campus, too.

You’ve got time to get here tonight at 7pm for Bob Yandian & Marilyn Hickey, and then we’ll do it all over again tomorrow at 9:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. Get EMPOWERED!

A new day….

Posted on August 4, 2011 by admin

Chris & I attended the opening night of “Jesus Culture Awakening” last night at the AllState Arena in Rosemont.

It was loud. (15,000 people can make a lot of noise)

It was BIG. (Think about it: Jesus Culture Band, Hillsong United, Reinhard Bonnke, Cindy Jacobs, Lou Engle & Bill Johnson in the same program – plus a bunch of others)

It felt historic. (The kids would probably say, ‘EPIC’)

I say ‘historic’ because I’ve never seen anything like it – the hunger for God, the passion of thousands of young people from several nations, all gathering in one place to stoke their desire for more of God, more signs & wonders, more social justice, more getting the job of evangelism done – it was absolutely unreal! Chris said it almost felt like the Pentecost of Acts 2 all over again.

One thing I know: we are not alone at CLC in our ‘mandate’ to reach this next generation! If anything we may be a little slow to catch up with what God is doing, but we’re certainly following His heartbeat.

BTW, occasionally I hear rumors that the 40-and-up members of CLC are feeling overlooked or neglected as we focus so much attention on reaching the younger generation. Can I weigh-in on that issue? As pastor, I really believe that’s a MAJOR LIE of the enemy to hinder & derail what God is doing at CLC. I mean, think about it: if we’re going to reach the next generation, WHO is going to do the ‘reaching’? We must have spiritually mature, seasoned ‘moms & dads’ of the faith who are willing to pour into the next generation – modeling & encouraging & showing them the way to be all that God is calling them to be!

That’s probably the healthiest thing I saw last night, too – this generation of firebrands is quick to acknowledge that it’s because of their mothers & fathers of the faith that they are gathering in Rosemont this week. Make no mistake: it’s the ENEMY who would seek to divide us in some kind of generation ‘gap’ and it’s GOD who is turning the hearts of fathers to their children to enable an unprecedented end-time harvest of souls coming to Jesus!

I’m so glad we get to be a part of that.

Your missions dollars at work…

Posted on July 11, 2011 by admin

We probably don’t say it enough around CLC, but in addition to any designated Steps of Faith missions offerings, we also tithe our income to missions. In other words, 10 cents of every dollar you give at CLC goes to change lives in missions efforts at home and internationally.

Two weeks ago there was a devastating flash flood in Davao City, Philippines where our first international campus is located. About 14,000 families were affected, and 30 people were killed, mostly small children. Even some of the new converts at our campus lost their lives and others lost their possessions. Our campus pastor immediately mobilized his congregation, with their meager resources, to respond to those families in need, and CLC wired monies to help them – all because of your giving throughout the year that enabled us to respond quickly.

Pastor Herley sent these pics yesterday, along with the thanks of his congregation AND the families we were able to help (who said CLC provided more assistance than their government!) I thought you’d like to see how your dollars are making a difference:

homes were destroyed in moments

Davao CLCers preparing the relief packages

praying with the people before distributing relief

waiting to receive

more than 250 families came for help

Pastor Herley shared the Gospel with those in need

Pastor Nelly serving the hurting

people received eagerly

our joy in helping is matched by their joy in receiving!

checking out……

Posted on June 7, 2011 by admin

When our Board of Directors was here a few weeks ago, they asked Chris and me some very pointed, very personal questions (that’s actually one of the benefits of being accountable to someone who has your best interests in mind). After hearing our answers as well as the schedule we’ve kept this year at CLC, they gave us a strong recommendation (and then revisited it several times during our discussions to make sure I heard them) that we needed to take some extended time away from CLC, in order to maintain our own emotional health and recharge our batteries for the future. They actually insisted on six weeks, but Pastor Eddie Cupples came to my rescue and finally agreed that I could return to speak on some of those Sundays, since 6 weeks out of the pulpit is a tough pill for any pastor to swallow.

At any rate, our “6-weeks” actually started about 10 days ago when we went away for Memorial Day weekend with our entire family, to celebrate my in-law’s (I posted about that here). I’ll confess I cheated some last week, but I did spend a little less time in the office than normal.

But today we’re “checking out” for a few days – not gonna be in the office; not gonna answer email; not even gonna write any posts for this blog. (Call it an ‘E-cation’!)

We’ll be back Friday for Ryan Royall’s funeral. Maybe I’ll have more to say then……but no promises.

Thanks for praying for us – we FEEL your love & your prayers, and we want to be emotionally-healthy pastors!

Andrew Wommack conference

Posted on June 6, 2011 by admin

We’re already looking forward to Sunday, August 7 when Andrew Wommack will be our guest at CLC for all 3 Sunday services. It’s been several years since we’ve hosted his ministry, but Andrew always has a fresh word and a powerful ministry to share! (Actually, he’s the kick-off speaker for some great meetings that will include Tim Ross, Bob Yandian and Marilyn Hickey - can’t wait! Mark your calendar for August 7-9; take some vacation time & enjoy some of the greatest teaching you’ll ever hear!)

But the real reason I’m writing today is that Andrew will be conducting his Gospel Truth Seminar at the Hyatt Regency O’Hare in Rosemont on August 4-6, and he is asking CLCers to consider helping as conference volunteers. They need help with ushers/greeters, produce table assistants, cashiers, and prayer ministers. For more information, please email Larry Hodge.

Gonna be a good summer!

EXTREME MAKEOVER:Church Edition!

Posted on June 2, 2011 by admin

No, I’m not talking about the popular TV show where needy families get their house completely redone by Ty and his team, thanks to the generosity of the show’s sponsors.

I’m talking about something a LOT more exciting than that!

CLC is about to have an ‘extreme makeover’!

Many of you probably remember that at our annual Business meeting early this year, we decided to move forward with a major makeover of the Tinley Park campus. We haven’t said much about it since, because we’ve been in the planning-and-design-stage. But that all ends next week, when CONSTRUCTION begins!

The most noticeable makeovers will be in the auditorium and lobby areas, where there will not only be decor changes, but major enhancements to the audio and video experience, as well as some renovations to the stage, backstage access, and the creation of some unique gathering spaces inside the auditorium. In the lobby, you’ll soon see a whole new look, as well as an additional 1200-1500 square feet of fellowship space in the Holy Grounds area, with the addition of a bookstore there as well. We also have plans that will greatly improve the children’s check-in process and help traffic flow for families with kids. If you can’t tell, I’m excited!

One of the most unusual aspects of this project is that the Church Solutions Group we’ve contracted with specializes in helping churches of all sizes to complete projects of this nature with the help of volunteers, rather than only utilizing professional contractors. That’s part of why I’m writing today.

We NEED CLCers who would like to be a part of helping with this extreme makeover. If you have skills in carpentry or painting, we need your help! If you’re in the electrical or plumbing trades, we
need your help. If you are unemployed or retired, or perhaps a student looking for something to do this summer, we can use your help. If you like to tear things up, we can even use your help (with some of the demolition work). In fact, if you just have some hours to volunteer, we can use your help with the everyday clean-up of construction debris, so the professionals can stay focused on what they do best.

This Sunday we’ll have a sign–up table with more information for those who wish to volunteer. Next week some of the behind-the-scenes work will begin, and on Sunday, June 12, after the last service, we’ll need help in removing everything (chairs, musical instruments, everything!) from the auditorium so the makeover of that area can begin – in order to put it together & be able to have service again on June 19.

Are you excited?

By the time we finish late this summer, it’s going to look like a whole new place. We won’t park a bus out front like Ty does, but I think you’ll like our version of Extreme Makeover: Church Edition! Best of all, you get to be a part of it all – sign-up this Sunday!

I love my church!

Posted on May 31, 2011 by admin

Just got back from our Memorial Day weekend where we honored my in-law’s for their 60th wedding anniversary and 80th birthdays, and had this email waiting in my inbox:

“Pastor Jerry I just wanted to tell you about the amazing things God has done in this session of this awesome life group. When I first signed up, I really didn’t know what to expect. In the life group listing it falls under men and youth, so I really didn’t have a clue what it was. So the first Thursday night I went and was totally blown away.

First, the younger kids ages 7-13 were going through a little physical exercise, then they got to play some ball. But what was even better about them playing was that Coach Perkins didn’t just let them run free and play; he coached them, taught them, and instructed them on fundamentals of basketball. Then the the rest of us got to play and it was a great time.

Later we all met in the center of the gym and Coach and Mrs. Perkins gave us the weekly lesson. Every Thursday it was a vital lesson for all: age 7 thru adult. I even stepped in as a leader and gave the youth a word every week along with Isaac Barber, Elijah Dixon and John Thorne. They issued a challenge to all the youth: By the last Thursday (May 26th) to memorize the books of the Bible, Genesis to Revelation.

This past Thursday we had four youth and two 7-year olds who remembered the Old Testament!! Then we had Xavier Dixon (a ten year old) who memorized ALL the books, Genesis to Revelation, with no pauses!!! And then Whitney Thorne also recitied all 66 books!!!

The seven year olds were brothers (I can’t remember their names however), and they faced off for the last Foot Locker $25 gift card. The brother who lost was sad, and the most amazing thing happened: Whitney gave him her gift card she had just won!!! It was truly a great ending to an unforgettable life group session!!

I just wanted to say this is an awesome group and I can’t wait until the fall session. I am definitely looking forward to more youth to participate and be blessed by the great experience!!”

That’s just ONE more reason why I love my church!

And it’s NOT TOO LATE for you to get involved in some great summertime groups – every Wednesday at 7:30pm, starting tomorrow night! (Get more details here) Hope you’ll join us-

more on the Joplin tornado

Posted on May 26, 2011 by admin

I just learned this morning that one of our CLCers from the South Bend campus (Mark Bishop) was personally affected by the Joplin tornado, as his father’s house was destroyed. His father survived, but is understandably quite shaken, so Mark requests our prayers.

I also saw a news clip featuring one of our partnering churches – here’s the link to the interview with Pastor Heath Mooneyham of Ignite Church. Thanks to folks like you all around the country, his church fed 3,000 people yesterday, and 200 are being housed inside the church.

As I’ve already said, CLC will match every online donation CLCers make through this Saturday, May 28 (in effect, doubling your gift!). Just be sure to designate your gift for “Joplin tornado relief or use this link.

Thanks again!

God@the Movies!

Posted on May 26, 2011 by admin

Probably most “churched” folks have heard of the “7 last words of Christ” (maybe as part of a Good Friday service). But do you know the ’7 last words of The Church’?

We’ve. Never. Done. It. That. Way. Before.

I’ve been around churches like that. I’m SO glad CLC is not one of them. But this summer, we’re pushing the envelope, even for us.

We’re planning a 4-week series this July 10-31 that is TOTALLY designed to interest your unchurched friends. It should be the most FUN and most INVITE-friendly series we’ve ever done, as we will teach Biblical principles found in 4 popular movies!

If you think that’s a cheap gimmick (or worse, a ‘compromise’ with ‘worldliness’), may I point out to you that the Apostle Paul himself used references to popular culture of his day, including direct quotes from Greek poets! (see Acts 17:22-28, among others). Personally, I think 1Cor. 9:19-23 makes it clear: we have a responsibility to use every means possible to reach people with the Gospel, including getting into their world & seeing things from their point of view, so we can lead them to Christ. And surely we all recognize this: we have friends that might not ever visit a church service, but they DO go to movies. Maybe they’ll consider your invitation just to see what a church has to say about God@the Movies!

That’s why I’m EXCITED about this sermon series. We’re going all-out, with lots of promotional tools to help you reach your friends & neighbors. We’re even decorating the building for our theme, and offering free popcorn to help folks ‘get it’ – and I promise ALL of us will see God through the lens of popular movies. Who knows…..the person you invite just might be one of those who gives their life to Christ as a result.

Mark your calendar for July 10, 17, 24 and 31 – and plan to bring friends with you each Sunday! Stay tuned for more details-

oops

Posted on May 25, 2011 by admin

In my post this morning about Summertime Wednesdays, I made ONE big mistake: the start time for all Wednesdays – kids classes, Consumed Student Ministries, and all adult classes is 7:30pm (not 7pm as was stated).
Hope you’ll take advantage of the opportunities – it’s such a great follow-up to our ‘Modern Family’ sermon series that ends this Sunday – but if you come at 7pm you’ll have to stand around a while waiting for things to start….

7:30pm each Wednesday, starting JUNE 1st – spread the word! (Here’s all the details again)

Summertime Wednesdays!

Posted on May 25, 2011 by admin

Those of us who live in Chicagoland hunker down & survive the 6 months or so of winter in order to enjoy the splendor of summertime. Having grown up in the South, I can tell you that folks there just don’t get the beauty of a sunshiny day like those of us who have waited through gray skies for such a long time!

But this summer is going to be special for more reasons than just the weather: I think you’ll want to be a part of our special summertime Wednesdays as well:

In addtion to some fun & exciting sessions for KIDS, and our ever-popular CONSUMED Student Ministries each week, we’re offering 3 great options for Adults:

Preparing Your Son for Every Man’s Battle - what I wouldn’t have given for help like this when my sons were younger!

It’s never been easy for a father or mother to talk to a son about sex. For Christian parents, it’s always been a challenge to know exactly how to teach God’s standards of purity and integrity. Now there’s help you can trust: Preparing Your Son for Every Man’s Battle. The authors behind the best-selling “Every Man” series have put together all the resources and guidance you need to experience frank, thorough, and natural conversations with your son about sexual integrity. They offer an effective new communication process that ensures a deep, abiding relationship between you and your son as he moves into his teen years and beyond. If you’re the parent of an adolescent/young teen boy, I urge you to clear your calendar as much as possible and plan to be here each Wednesday at 7:30pm starting June 1! For more info, or to register, contact Ken Earley

Just as important for busy adults is this option: More Hours in My Day: Proven Ways to Organize Your Home, Family and Yourself

For more than 25 years, Emilie Barnes and Sheri Torelli have conducted time-management seminars and taken the opportunity to listen to the thousands of attending women express their hearts’ desires-to find more hours each day for what really matters most: family, home, and quality of life. We will study those time-tested answers to every woman’s dilemma…establish simple systems that save time and money, gain peace of mind and reclaim precious time for family and friends. Filled with inspiration, encouragement, and tried-and-true tips that will help you get your home organized and keep it that way as well as plan for and have a daily vibrant prayer time with God. For more info, or to register, contact Pat Earley

Finally, here’s something for everyone – the perfect follow-up from our ‘Modern Family’ series: How To Raise Spiritually Healthy Kids

Our Family Ministries Pastors, Jim & Cheri Garrett will lead these sanctuary sessons on the all-important issue of Parenting. Nothing gives us more joy…or greater challenges. We will address concerns such as:

How do I balance my work and my family time?
What’s the best way to handle my teenager’s attitude?
Can I do a better job of raising my kids?

We will cover topics each week that are key to effective parenting, from raising well-balanced kids to overcoming the mistakes you make along the way. This study will not only focus on the kids part but also on growth and health as parents, single parents as well as married couples and on keeping our marriages healthy and growing while raising kids…we will even spend some time on the role of grandparents.

That’s what I call some good stuff in the Summertime…..each Wednesday night at 7:30pm, beginning June 1 at CLC-Tinley Park…..make your plans!

Joplin tornado relief

Posted on May 24, 2011 by admin

I’m sure you’ve been just as shocked by the images & reports coming out of Joplin, where the death toll is already at 117 and expected to go higher – making it the deadliest tornado in American history.

I lived through a tornado when I was a freshman in high school, as-44 people were killed in Jonesboro, AR and the church my family attended was completely destroyed. A few years later while I was in Bible College, another tornado demolished the high school I had attended. So I know first-hand the devastation these storms can cause, but I’ve never seen anything on the scale that Joplin experienced this weekend.

I’m pleased to tell you that CLC actually already has multiple partners on the ground in Joplin through our network of churches, and they’re already providing emergency shelter and assistance to those who survived. If you would like to help with this outreach, CLC will match your online gift from now thru this Saturday, May 28. Just be sure to designate your gift for “Joplin tornado relief or use this link.

Thank you in advance for being such a generous people.

Church Diversity

Posted on May 23, 2011 by admin

My friend Scott Williams recently wrote his first book, “Church Diversity”, with the subtitle, “Sunday The Most Segregated Day of the Week”, and I hope it becomes a best-seller. Actually, I hope pastors & churches all across America read it and apply it to their ministries!

[Full disclosure: Scott was kind enough to talk to me about the book prior to publication and invite me to participate. CLC was one of eight churches featured in Chapter 6.] I’ve been saying for years, “we can’t expect our society to get it right until the Church gets it right” – but Scott proves me wrong, as he builds a strong case that our culture and certainly corporate America has actually made significant progress in regards to diversity, while the Church still lags behind. It seems this is one more case where the Church is actually behind the times, and I pray that his book helps to change that.

Most importantly, I pray that the quote from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. when he declared in 1963 that “11 o’clock Sunday morning is the most segregated hour of the week … And the Sunday school is still the most segregated school” would finally become obsolete, as ‘red and yellow, black and white’ across this nation would embrace the fact that ‘we are precious in His sight’! Then and only then this video could have a much different ending. (take about 90 seconds to watch), and stuff like this would never happen in America again!

Thanks, Scott, for calling us to task. At CLC, we’re with you, and we will model diversity down here until we all get up there!

Russia, day 5

Posted on May 17, 2011 by admin

just some of the kids receiving prayer before going to classes

: Sergei the worship leader

praise band

praise choir

Our final day in Russia was absolutely the highlight of this trip. We were guests of the host church for the conference, the New Testament Church of Perm, which is the largest Spirit-filled church in all of Russia. My guesstimate is that there were 2,500 people in the 3 services. Here are my random thoughts about the day, in no particular order:

their building, and the story behind it’s acquisition, is incredible: it was a huge Communist Social Hall, used for big celebrations and holidays during communism, with an ornate, opera-house-style auditorium to seat about 1,000 on the main floor and three balconies, plus oodles & oodles of classrooms, offices, dining halls, kitchen, cafe, etc. When Pastor Eduard tried to buy it from the governmental authorities, the regional governor opposed him at every step of the way until the pastor had a dream that the governor thanked him for praying for his wife. When he awoke, he sensed it was a God-dream. At his next meeting, he told the governor, “you’re on my mind so much, I’m dreaming about you”, and when the governor asked what he meant, he told him the dream. The governor dismissed everyone else from the meeting except the pastor and then told him, “My wife is having a very serious surgery tomorrow”. Pastor Eduard assured him that the church would pray for her – and from that point on, the governor no longer opposed the sale of the building and has instead assured the pastor privately that he will ‘smooth the way’ for more churches like theirs to be established throughout the region!

I did a 3-part series from our “GROW” series and had a lot of fun trying to draw out the normally stoic Russian believers. I believe the Lord helped us truly connect, and there were salvation decisions in each service!

They asked if Chris would speak to one of their adult classes between the second & third services and told her their focus at this time was parenting. She taught a lesson (spontaneously) on “blessing your children” since she had just taught that at CLC and could ‘wing it’ without her notes – only to learn later that the topic they had planned to cover before learning she was available was about “blessing your children”! (Only God!) Great response from the entire room – and this congregation is full of young families!

Speaking of children, one of my favorite parts of all 3 services was their tradition, immediately after the offering, to have all the children come to the stage while the congregation applauds them – then they’re prayed over publicly before being dismissed to their classes. (I’m at that grandfather stage where little kids all seem cute to me anyway, but I loved the fact that the kids are applauded every Sunday before being taught God’s Word!)

Unlike our tightly-packed service schedule, their services last about 2 hours, with anywhere from 90-minutes to 2 hours between services – so it made for a LONG day – but they served us lunch & dinner in between.

Pastor Eduard is also the Head Bishop of the largest union of churches in Russia, which demands much of his time and travel, so he was not present for the Leadership seminar or the Sunday services, but returned home late in the day and came immediately to our hotel, so we were able to spend more than an hour getting acquainted and hearing his vision to reach ALL of Russia with the Gospel in the next 10 years! He’s an incredible leader with a vision and a plan to get it done, and I was honored beyond words to get to spend time with him.

Here are some pics from our entire visit – enjoy:

New Testament Church, Perm, Russiatouring the last-standing 'GULAG' where over 50 million people were imprisoned for political 'crimes' during the Communist regimetypical bunk in the GULAG, where 4 men would sleepEquip Regional Coordinator, NadyaAnnia was our translator for the Equip Leadership SeminarAnnia was our translator for the Equip Leadership SeminarChris taught about the many 'hats' a leader wearsmore 'hats' of a leaderwhy just say it if you can show it?Annia & Chris really connectedAleksander the youth pastor from 400 kilometers away is 2nd from L, with 4 leaders he's mentoringI felt something when these ladies prayed!sweet Russian nurse who wants to go to Senegal with CLCThe praise team takes the stage Sunday morningworship on 4 levels (3 balconies & the main floor)

Communication

Posted on May 5, 2011 by admin

I wrote yesterday about the importance of teamwork (see that post here), and one place that especially shows up for me is during our weekly sermon-planning with the CLC pastoral team. Even though I’ve been preaching for over 40 years, I don’t think a week goes by but what their insights and suggestions actually help strengthen my plans for a message.

This weekend is my wife’s turn as we celebrate MOTHER’S DAY (have you invited a special woman in your life yet?), and I’m really excited about the teaching we’ve got planned on “Real Communication”.

The power of your words in your home with your family is amazing. I really hope you’ll bring someone this Sunday at any CLC campus to learn how we can maximize that power!

We’ve even got a little surprise planned for each mom in attendance – can’t wait!

Teamwork!

Posted on May 4, 2011 by admin

It’s amazing to me how many of us try to go it alone.

I talked about that some this past Sunday from 1Cor. 7:17, Psa. 68:5-6 and Rom. 12:13, 15-16 in reference to single adults – but the sad truth is that so many of us, pastors & leaders included, oftentimes function as “soloists”, instead of working with a team to get more done.

Case in point: this past Monday, like almost every year for as long as I can remember, our Board of Directors counseled me against some plans that I had made. (In other words, they shot down some of my ideas!). Instead of pouting about it or complaining about them disagreeing with my ideas – I embraced the wisdom and safety that comes from a multitude of counselors. (Prov 15:22).

In fact, I’m thankful to be part of a team that can help me avoid pitfalls that I might not see AND redirect my attention to areas where we can bear even more fruit!

Who’s on your team?

Selah.

Monday, Monday…

Posted on May 2, 2011 by admin

How’s that song go…..”always get me down” or something like that?

Not today. Today is the annual meeting of our CLC Board of Directors – and that’s always a good thing. For those who may not be aware, we’re blessed to be served at CLC by an external board of pastors & leaders whose ministries are time-tested and proven, and who are further down the road than us, so they can help us get to the next level.

I am honored that we are served by these wonderful men of God (click on their name to learn more about their ministries):

If today is anything like previous years, we’ll laugh some, pray some, hear priceless words of wisdom (usually from the Bishop), solve some problems, review the past and strategize a bit for CLC’s future. It’s always a tiresome day, but one of the highlights of the year for me.

If you read this early in the day, say a prayer for us – for wisdom & direction.

We are a blessed church and Chris & I are blessed pastors to have these men here today-

(The Real) Modern Family

Posted on April 27, 2011 by admin

Watched the BULLS finish off the Pacers last night (DRose is a beast, and everbody helped, too) – but as exciting as that was, I think I’m even more excited about this next sermon series!

After spending the first 4 months of this year with GROW and iKnow, we’re going to concentrate on the FAMILY for the entire month of May. What I’m especially excited about is that the modern family isn’t “one size fits all” – I mean, there’s nuclear families, blended families, single-parent families, never-marrieds, divorced, widowed, married without kids – and ALL of us are facing challenges like never before. The family is under attack in 2011!

But get this: God’s Word still has the answers.

So we’re going to dive in deep these next 5 Sundays, with practical applications for each family – regardless of your status. I mean it: this is NOT going to be a marriage series….or a parenting series…..we’re working hard to make sure we bring out God’s Word for each person, regardless of marital status or situation.

MOST-IMPORTANT: every family in America needs help. This will be the most guest-friendly series ever, so I’m pleading with you to INVITE, INVITE, INVITE! Your friends and co-workers will appreciate these teachings.

If you had a guest here last weekend for Easter, please talk to them & invite them to return!

If you invited someone for Easter who didn’t show, get in touch this week & invite them again!

Grab some more of those invite cards, make some phone calls, send an email blast to your friends – whatever it takes, let’s help some families & see what God will do in the month of May!

More Easter art…..

Posted on April 25, 2011 by admin

In passing out props to all the folks who made this Easter so special at CLC, I completely forgot to mention the opening video we used yesterday – it was totally produced by CLCers, Francis & Joshua Claudio, with music by Lisle Worship Director, Terrell Wilson and voiceover by CSM Director, Sam Hamstra – way to go, guys!

Another reason this Easter was so special at CLC was Heather Schmaedeke’s painting during the message, to illustrate Colton Burpo’s testimony of “Heaven is For Real”. (By the way, if you missed it, or would just like to view his story again – here’s the clip from the Today show. Or if you want to buy the book, here’s the best price I’ve found.)

At any rate, on of the highlights of my Easter was when I greeted a first-time guest in the lobby after service, and her little boy presented me with a sketch he had done while I preached (I guess he believed me that a picture is worth a thousand words!).

Anyway, I thought you might enjoy seeing -

It IS all about the numbers!

Posted on April 25, 2011 by admin

I realized after last night’s post that some critics were probably saying, “that’s the problem with churches like CLC – all they think about is numbers!”

You’re right.

But I’m not embarrassed about that. Seems to me that GOD is into numbers, too. (As someone else has said, He’s so into numbers, He even named one of His books that!) Seriously, think about these facts:

It seems like someone was always counting the numbers when significant events occurred in the early Church, too (Acts 1:15 with 2:1; Acts 2:41; Acts 4:4; Acts 5:14; Acts 6:7; Acts 12:24; Acts 19:6-7)

But you also must notice that the first-century believers also recounted the stories when only ONE person came to Christ (Acts 8:26-39; Acts 9:1-18).

In fact, that IS the point: behind every number there is a story…..the story of a person who will live forever; a precious soul for whom Christ died, whose entire life and eternal destiny may have been changed because of yesterday!

No, I’m not one bit embarrassed to celebrate with our CLC staff the numbers of people who attended a service this weekend where they heard the Gospel (Good News!) presented in song, dance, word & art! And I’m celebrating with friends like Eddie Cupples & Troy O’Quin & Scott Jones, who broke their records yesterday as well – or even pastors I don’t know personally but whose ministry I admire, like Steven Furtick (who had over 19,000 in attendance, 2,200 of whom gave their lives to Christ this Easter!)

What I would REALLY like this week is to hear your stories – if someone you invited received Christ, or something special happened to you at CLC this Easter (at any campus), would you leave your comments below so we can all rejoice together?

Too good to keep

Posted on April 21, 2011 by admin

I guess I could have waited to share this on Sunday, or post it on another day. But sometimes the news is SO good, you just can’t keep it to yourself – know what I mean?

Anyway, here’s the report I received from our Consumed Student Ministries Director, Sam Hamstra, this morning:

Great night at Consumed last night – we had 4 more salvation commitments. 6-8 Rededications. And 6 people sign up to get baptized!!!

Sam & Taylor and their team of volunteers are doing a GREAT job of ministering to our students – and I’m excited about seeing some of these baptisms THIS Easter!Just one question (you knew I’d ask) – WHO are you inviting?

Do you believe in hell?

Posted on April 21, 2011 by admin

That’s probably a strange question for this blog, but it certainly has become an issue, at least among contemporary Christians. Some of that controversy is being fueled by the latest release from popular pastor and author, Rob Bell – a book called, “Love Wins”.

I just read a post from Perry Noble about this controversy, and instead of re-inventing the wheel by expressing my thoughts here, I’m just going to encourage you to read Perry’s – he said it so well here.

I do believe in a literal hell, and I do not want to see anyone spend eternity there. That’s part of the reason WHY I’m pleading with you to continue inviting your friends and family to join us THIS weekend for the greatest Easter celebration ever at CLC – “iKnow What Easter is All About”.

Remember – we need to free up parking spaces & chairs for our two later services on Sunday, so join us on Saturday at 6pm for our Children’s Choir and enjoy some Culver’s ice cream afterwards! Or come early on Sunday (pancake breakfast at 7am) and stay for the 8am service. Can’t wait to see what God will do!

I can’t stand it…..

Posted on April 20, 2011 by admin

…..I’m SO excited about THIS weekend!

I was already pumped about Easter before, but at our weekly planning meeting with the pastoral staff yesterday, we completely revamped our plans for the message, and I can’t wait to see what God is going to do with people who visit CLC this Easter!

It will be special at EACH campus, that’s for sure, but in Tinley Park we also changed the presentation to include artistic elements that will touch hearts on a different level. Of course, we also have our children’s choir singing at the Saturday service, and our combined dance teams at the Sunday celebrations – along with a great worship experience as always.

Most importantly, I believe the Presence of the Lord will be at work to draw lost people to Himself.

I need YOUR help:

1. Would you please PRAY and even FAST a meal or a day before Sunday, seeking the Lord on behalf of people who are far from Him this Easter?

2. Would you sacrifice your convenience to attend the Saturday celebration or the 8am service, in order to free up a parking space and a chair in the two later services when most guests will likely attend?

3. Would you use the next 3 days to invite, invite, invite? I said it last Sunday because I really believe it: that little invitation card could become someone’s ‘ticket’ to eternal life!

I hope you’re as excited as I am. It’s gonna be an Easter we never forget.

iKnow I’m pumped about iKnow!

Posted on April 14, 2011 by admin

I guess it’s only normal, but I really hope you’re getting as much out of the “iKnow” series (watch the trailer here) as I am. Looking at these bedrock foundational truths has been life-changing already, since we know (regardless of how we feel):

God is for us!
God is working in our circumstances!
God hears us!
How to be Made Right with God!

But I’m especially excited about sharing with you this Sunday, “Time is Short!”. I hope you’ll invite a friend or family member to join you this Sunday to learn why time is short, and what you need to do about that fact. I CAN’T WAIT!

Oh, while you’re inviting them for this Sunday, give ‘em an Easter invite card and tell them about the four great celebrations we’ve planned for Easter weekend! Who are you inviting?

What do you know about YOUR Jewish roots?

Posted on April 13, 2011 by admin

Ever thought about it?

I mean, think about it: the Bible is a Jewish book, written by Jewish authors. Jesus was a Jew. The 12 disciples were Jewish. The first-century church was Jewish for the first 10 chapters of Acts (a period of at least 8 years from it’s origin in Acts 2).

Need I continue? All of the New Testament was based on the foundation of the Old Testament. In fact, the only ‘Bible’ the apostles used to preach with was the Old Testament. Do you think it’s time we got acquainted with the Jewish roots of our faith?

Next week, on GOOD FRIDAY, you’ll have an opportunity to do just that, as CLC-Tinley Park sponsors our second annual Passover Seder. It’s the same observance that Jews have enjoyed for 3,500 years – marking their deliverance from slavery in Egypt. It’s the same celebration that Jesus enjoyed with his disciples (we call it “The Last Supper”). The only difference is that they looked back on their deliverance from Egypt, while we celebrate our deliverance from sin, through the blood of Jesus!

Our celebration will be led by my friend, Burt Horowitz, a Messianic Jewish believer who is deeply connected with our partners in the land of Israel. This Sunday is the deadline to purchase your tickets (since we have to prepare enough food for everyone), or better yet, you can avoid the lines on Sunday and order your tickets online here.

It will be a Good Friday you won’t forget.

It’s also the beginning of a GREAT Easter weekend – WHO are you inviting?

It just might change their life for eternity.

WHO will you invite?

Posted on April 11, 2011 by admin

In case you missed the video yesterday at CLC, you can watch it here.

Makes you think, doesn’t it?

As you’ve considered our Easter celebrations, WHO have you possibly overlooked in your circle of influence? You know, people that perhaps you think would not be interested in church, or perhaps they’re too messed-up with drugs or alcohol or some other addictive behavior. Or maybe it’s just someone that you’re a little embarrassed to talk to about your church….so you haven’t.

Did you know that survey after survey indicates that 80% of unchurched adults in America indicate that they would accept the invitation of a friend to attend church?

You’ve only got less than 2 weeks left – I hope you’ll make it a point to invite someone to be your guest this Easter – in Tinley Park, there are 4 opportunities to bring them: Saturday, April 23 at 6pm (with a special children’s choir & Culver’s ice cream afterwards); Sunday, April 24 at 8, 9:30 and 11:30 a.m. At our other campuses, it’s one BIG Easter celebration at the normal service time.

I can promise you this: if you bring your unchurched or unsaved friends and family members, we WILL present the Gospel of Jesus Christ clearly, and God WILL give us a harvest of souls, as people give their lives to him!

Will someone you invite be in that number?

Sunday reflections, part 2

Posted on April 10, 2011 by admin

I guess this is the ‘danger’ of posting so early on Sunday afternoon…..I just received an email from Pastor Herley Montes at our Philippines campus…..and it’s too good to save for another day.

As some of you know, Pastor Herley’s only daughter, Grace, who lives & works in Dubai with her husband, was pregnant with twins until last week, when both babies died in her womb. I can’t even imagine the sadness & grief this whole family is experiencing.

BUT, their commitment to the Lord and people is so strong, that they went on with a special weekend Encounter Retreat that was already scheduled for this weekend, and here are the results:

742 in attendance in their 2 Sunday services (a new record!)

135 participants in the retreat, including 115 from our campus there, and 20 from a neighboring church.

75 people were water-baptized today!

ALL 135 were baptized in the Holy Spirit and spoke in tongues! (In fact, Pastor Herley said when it was time to begin their evening service, many of these new believers were still on the floor, overcome by the joy of the Lord, and had to be carried out to another room so they could begin their worship service!)

I thought you’d enjoy that as much as I did – and just think: one dime of every dollar you give at CLC helps make it possible for us to partner with people like Herley & Nelly Montes, who are doing such a wonderful work in Davao City!

My hat’s off to the entire Montes family and our HOF-CLC family in the Philippines – and all of us at CLC are rejoicing with you!

here’s a photo of the ‘cardboard testimony’ tonight after the Encounter Retreat:

cardboard testimonies of those baptized & filled with the Spirit today!

A ‘right now’, ‘on-time’ God

Posted on April 7, 2011 by admin

Last night I attended the All-Access Conference and listened to two messages from two pastors I highly respect for their work: Matthew Barnett of the Los Angeles Dream Center, and Chris Hodges from Church of the Highlands in Birmingham, AL. Both were outstanding.

However, the message from Chris Hodges was more than a sermon; it was a prophetic ‘word’ from God to me. Those of you who know me well know that I’ve recently experienced the deepest hurt in my 40 years of ministry. The details aren’t important, but the pain for me became very personal this past week, and I have struggled since then with feelings of anger and grief and resentment, even though as a pastor I know the danger of holding on to any of that, and even though I’ve tried to release it all into God’s hands.

Last night, just minutes before he was scheduled to preach, Chris went backstage and discarded his prepared message, choosing instead to deliver a ‘word’ that the Holy Spirit prompted him to give. I won’t take the time to dissect it here, but let me just say that I heard God as clearly as I’ve ever heard Him – and I’m determined: the place of my greatest relational pain is NOT going to determine my destiny!

I wonder who is reading this post that is also at a crossroads – perhaps something from your past is threatening your future. Perhaps the pain of the moment has blinded you to what God really has planned for your life. I urge you to hear His voice today – let go of your pain, and reach for your destiny.

Thank you, Lord, for speaking to me through Chris Hodges last night. And thank you, Chris, for delivering that word!

Don’t dance alone!

Posted on April 6, 2011 by admin

By the time we got in from the airport last night for the All-Access Conference, I had already missed the message by my friend, Mark Batterson, and host pastor Dino Rizzo had already started his message. So I don’t know his text or his title, but I sure got two of his illustrations:

he told the story from his high school days of one of the football jocks, a relatively-popular guy, who came to a dance without a date. What’s worse is that the guy proceeded to dance by himself all night long. (Of course, if you know Dino, he demonstrated all of this with some pretty funky moves). He talked about how weird it was and how it affected the way everybody looked at the football player from then on.

he closed the message by sharing his own fear of climbing ladders, citing examples of people he knows who’ve been injured by falling off a ladder…..always when they were working alone. Then he brought four of his pastor friends on stage to hold each corner of the ladder while he climbed to the top.

If you haven’t seen where this is going already, his point was how awkward and dangerous it is for pastors or church-planters to go it alone. I know, because for too many years of my ministry, I felt relatively alone. No more. The most important thing in life is relationships. That’s why I’ve joined the ARC, and other fellowships where I can connect with other pastors.

And that goes for church members, not just pastors. Don’t live life by yourself. Build some friendships with like-minded people who will hold the ladder for you as you climb to the heights that God always wanted for your life.

Take the first step by inviting someone into your life for pizza or coffee. Take a risk. Get into a Life Group. But don’t dance alone.

All-Access Conference

Posted on April 5, 2011 by admin

After a full-day of training with Equip, I’ll head to Baton Rouge late this afternoon for the All-Access Conference hosted by Healing Place Church. I already posted about it here, but in case you’re not familiar, this is the annual conference for the Association of Related Churches, of which CLC is a member.

After the stress of these last few weeks, I can’t tell you how much I’m looking forward to receiving for a few days, especially considering the line-up of speakers this year. It’s also a time to connect with pastors from around the country, renewing old frienships and making new ones.

I may be tired in body when I get home Friday morning, but I should be refreshed in spirit and raring to go again….especially considering that this Sunday we’ll be presenting the Gospel as clearly as I ever have in my entire life – I URGE you to invite a friend to join you for THIS Sunday!

Calling ALL women (and all married men)

Posted on April 4, 2011 by admin

The title may sound strange, so let me explain…

I want to get this message to EVERY woman at CLC, and since some of them are married, I’d like to enlist the help of their husbands in making this possible:

as your pastor, I’m encouraging every woman of CLC to attend our annual Heart to Heart Women’s retreat. This year it’s located at the Marina Grand Resort in New Buffalo, Michigan on the shores of Lake Michigan.

Whether you are presently a part of H2H, have been a part in the past, or have never attended, my wife wants to offer you a personal invitation to get away for this wonderful retreat. I’m convinced that YOU need a time to get away from the stress of everyday life to unwind. It will be a great opportunity for you to be refreshed and restored: physically, emotionally, spiritually and even socially. This is also an awesome opportunity to meet new friends, deepen your relationships, relax, and just be you. There will be laughter, pampering, glamour shots, crafts, free gifts and awesome times in prayer, worship and the Word. (Guys, this would be a great gift for Mother’s Day.)

Retreat Options
April 29th – 30th
(Two days & one night’s lodging)
$150.00

April 28th – 30th
(Three days & two nights’ lodging)
$195.00

Saturday only
$100

(These prices are for double occupancy – 3 or 4 women per room brings the cost down per person)

For more information about how you can register, please contact my wife.

Deadline for the retreat is just a week away, so there’s no time to lose. Sign up today!

Easter extravaganza!

Posted on March 30, 2011 by admin

I guess I really don’t even know what ‘extravaganza’ means.

But I do know that Easter 2011 at CLC is going to be our BEST yet:

Good Friday, April 22 – Passover SEDER Celebration with Messianic Jewish believer, Burt Horowitz. (You can get all the details Sunday, but we will celebrate a Passover meal as Jesus did with his disciples, while marveling at all the symbols HE fulfilled for us!)

Saturday, April 23 at 6pm – a multi-sensory Easter Celebration with music, dance, digital artistry & more, including a CLC Children’s Choir AND Culver’s ice cream afterwards! (That’s what you call something for everyone!)

Sunday, April 24 – free pancake breakfast served from 7-7:30am, followed by another celebration of the Resurrection with music, digital artistry & more.

Our hope is to fill those 2 services with CLCers who perhaps do not have guests attending with you (well, other than grandparents & family members who want to see those kids sing Saturday night). This will enable us to fill the later services on Easter Sunday with guests & prospects – because The Gospel will be preached in all 4 services this Easter, and we’re believing God for MANY to respond!

Sunday, April 24 at 9:30 & 11:30am – the truth of the Resurrection on display through music, dance, digital art and the proclamation of God’s Word.

All the studies show us that unchurched folks WILL accept the invitation of a friend….and there’s NO time of the year when people are more open to an invitation than EASTER – so start inviting NOW.

You never know: the person you invite might be one of those who not only attends, but receives Jesus and has their life changed forever!

Everything listed above is just our Tinley campus, but we have a special weekend planned at each location, so check with your campus pastor for details-

WHO WILL YOU INVITE?

Being a pastor

Posted on March 29, 2011 by admin

One of the blogs I personally follow is from Ron Edmondson, a pastor in TN that I’ve never met, but whose writings often give me food for thought.

I thought his post about President Obama’s speech last night was worth sharing with you. I’ll admit when I read it my thoughts quickly went from politics to this past Sunday at CLC.

I don’t know if I looked like a pastor on Sunday, but I know that when the day was over, I felt like one.

I’m humbled and grateful today for some wonderful ‘sheep’ who are following me as I follow Christ.

Monday morning reflections

Posted on March 28, 2011 by admin

First, we had 2,000 people worshipping at a CLC campus in the USA yesterday! That makes twice in the month of March that our total attendance has been 2,000 or more, and it will be the highest average attendance month in our 21-year history! Kudos, CLCers, for inviting your friends & family!

Second, the session with Tim Ross and our up-and-coming leaders & potential campus pastors last night was absolutely mind-boggling. He shared with us on the subjects of integrity and transparency by being transparent himself – and I’ve NEVER been in a meeting anywhere with the raw honesty and openness and vulnerability as he shared his story and his personal struggles with us, in an environment of Biblical principles, sound theology and (for us) prophetic insight. It. was. incredible.

Only God could have arranged this weekend for us. CLC gained a new gift from the Lord, and truths that will change our lives. Chris and I gained a new friend as well. I’m excited about our future together.

Another reason…..

Posted on March 21, 2011 by admin

I was already excited about welcoming Tim Ross to our pulpit this Sunday as we celebrate our 21st anniversary – but I got even more excited about viewing his online testimony. If you have about nine minutes to spare, I hope you’ll take a look here.

One of our core values at CLC is authenticity. We’re not interested in faking it or hiding our stuff; we want to be real people who deal with their issues and help others deal with theirs.

I admire someone like Tim willing to be so transparent – and I can’t wait to hear what God wants to say to us through him this Sunday – all 3 services in Tinley Park – so invite someone to be your guest!

introducing Tim Ross…

Posted on March 17, 2011 by admin

We’re celebrating 21 years of God’s blessings on CLC next Sunday, March 27 at all 3 services in Tinley Park, and I’m so excited to welcome Tim Ross to our pulpit that day.

The ONE thing that I’ve heard from the Lord as we entered this year of ministry is that it was time for CLC to “get younger” by transitioning to the next generation. Part of that transition will include hearing from younger voices that God is raising up in our day, and Tim Ross is certainly one of those voices.

When I met him last year and booked him to come to CLC, he was the Young Adults Pastor at The Potter’s House in Dallas (Bishop T.D. Jakes’ ministry). Recently, Tim has left that assignment to launch his own itinerant ministry, speaking to churches and conferences all across the world, and we are privileged to have him come to CLC. (If you want a preview, you can watch him online here)

I hope you’ll invite some friends to be your guest for this 21st ‘birthday party’ for CLC – it’ll be a great way to introduce them to your church, and I know they’ll get a word from God through Tim that day.

Can’t wait!

Too good to keep…..

Posted on March 8, 2011 by admin

I just have to share this with you – I’ve been reading the incredible reports about the Watoto Choir from last Sunday in your comments to this blog, emails, Facebook postings, and even text messages (gotta love how technology enables us to stay connected anywhere in the world!)

But are you ready for this?

The offering on Sunday in Tinley Park and Shorewood combined was $20,000.00!!!

Off the top of my head, I don’t think we’ve EVER had that kind of response to any guest at CLC in our entire 21-year history! I knew those kids would steal our hearts, but I never expected that kind of generous giving…..just shows again what an awesome family of believers God is putting together at CLC!

Love you all – can’t wait to see you again THIS Sunday! (Of course, we’re teaching 4 times today before boarding a plane to Manila and a few hours sleep before catching another flight to Calbayog tomorrow for the first Global Advance conference in that city…..keep praying!)

Oops!

Posted on March 8, 2011 by admin

Yikes.

Uh-oh.

OMG!

I just discovered that THIS Sunday is time change Sunday when we return to Daylight Savings Time by moving our clocks forward one hour. (Meaning we all lose an hour of sleep Saturday night)

No big deal, right?

Except that I’ve observed for years that some CLCers don’t get the word and when they discover on Sunday morning that they’re already an hour late, many just don’t bother. In fact, some years in our history the time change Sunday has been the lowest-attended Sunday of the year!

I’m going to be on a plane for about 21 hours on Friday night & Saturday in order to get back for Sunday, and I’ve got a message that I really want to share with you Sunday morning – so I’m begging you to set your clocks forward on Saturday night and plan to join me THIS Sunday!

I think I feel a little better now.

next sermon series

Posted on March 2, 2011 by admin

You know me….I always think the next series is the best-yet….but I really mean it! (Gotta give me an ‘A’ for sincerity!)

Starting on March 13, at all 4 CLC campuses, we’ll kick-off the “iKnow” series. It’s not another gadget from Apple to go with your iPod, iPhone or iPad – it’s a good look at 6-8 verses in Scripture that declare life-changing truth that we should already know, because the Bible says, “I know…..”

I promise it’s going to be relevant, bedrock foundational stuff each week that you simply must know.

iKnow it’s going to be good! Start your inviting NOW-

Just a few more days…

Posted on February 28, 2011 by admin

You may have seen the video promo this past Sunday, but the internationally-known Watoto Children’s Choir is coming to our Tinley Park and Shorewood campuses THIS Sunday, March 6.

This choir of orphans from Uganda performed at our South Bend campus a few weeks ago, and here’s what Pastor Doug posted on his Facebook page afterward:

“My life is forever changed by the Watoto Children’s Choir with their joyful songs, dazzling dance moves and amazing stories of triumph and hope. If you ever get the chance to see them don’t miss it. Your life will be changed and your eyes opened to what God is doing around the world.”

‘Nuff said. You’ve been forewarned. They’ll be performing at each service this Sunday in Tinley Park (8, 9:30 & 11:30am; 6pm in Shorewood) and we’re giving them the entire service time – so I urge you to arrive EARLY to get a good seat – most importantly, bring your friends & family with you! (If you don’t, you will regret it later – they’re that good!)

annual BUSINESS meeting

Posted on February 21, 2011 by admin

As I mentioned at the close of our services yesterday, attendance at the annual business meeting at CLC is normally very low – and that’s never bothered me, since it’s likely an indication that you have confidence in how we’re handling the financial and business affairs of this church. But this next Sunday, February 27 at 5pm should be different.

Here’s why: in addition to the usual financial reports and election of officers, we will be presenting a proposal regarding the possible future expansion of CLC and the use of GO! funds. For that reason, I believe that every member of the Tinley Park campus and especially those who gave faithfully to our capital campaign from 2007-2010 will want to be present and have a voice in our plans for the future. (For those of you who are members of one of our other campuses, check with your campus pastors for the date of your business meeting)

I hope to see you next Sunday at 5pm!

Watoto Choir coming to CLC!

Posted on February 16, 2011 by admin

You may have seen the video promo this past Sunday, but the internationally-known Watoto Children’s Choir is coming to our Tinley Park and Shorewood campuses on Sunday, March 6.

This choir of orphans from Uganda performed at our South Bend campus this past Wednesday, and here’s what Pastor Doug posted on his Facebook page afterward:

‘Nuff said. You’ve been forewarned. Mark your calendar for March 6 (8, 9:30 & 11:30am in Tinley Park; 6pm in Shorewood) - most importantly, invite your friends & family! (If you don’t, you will regret it later – they’re that good!)

Oh, one more thing: we still need a few host homes that would be willing to keep 2 or 3 of the children and their chaperone overnight on Saturday, March 5 – if you’re interested, please let us know.

Church-planting machine

Posted on February 10, 2011 by admin

My journey from my original faith family into the non-denominational, independent church world was downright frightening in the early years. But as we’ve opened ourselves to the wider Body of Christ, we’ve discovered all sorts of blessings, relationships and networks that we never knew existed before.

One of those networks is the Association of Related Churches (the ARC), which is an absolute church-planting machine. This group of like-minded pastors led by Billy Hornsby has planted 200 churches in the last 10 years, several of which are among the fastest-growing churches in America!

I believe in what they’re doing in the USA just like I believe in missions internationally, and I don’t know of another organization in the country that is as successful as the ARC in planting churches. That’s why CLC is proud to be a member of the ARC, and I’d encourage any pastor reading this to consider joining as well.

Probably the best way to get acquainted with ARC is to attend the annual All Access Conference in Baton Rouge this April 5-7. The line-up of speakers is incredible; the app sessions will show you how it’s done; and even the food is good (well, I’m still a Southerner at heart, so I’m biased in that regard). Check it out.

special guests this weekend!

Posted on February 5, 2011 by admin

In a few hours I’ll be headed to Midway to meet long-time friends, Mark & Lori Carouthers, who will be our worship guests for this weekend. When I say, “long-time”, I’m talking pre-CLC!

Mark & Lori ministered for us when we pastored in Dexter, MO prior to moving to Chicago, as well as at the high school shortly after we launched CLC. In fact, they did a worship concert for us as the first service in our first building, back in November of 1991!

Mark is a songwriter/musician/recording artist and Lori is a real worshiper! For those of you who remember the Brownsville Revival, he wrote the song that was used every night for the altar invitation, “Mercy Seat”. They’ve done concerts around the world, served as worship pastors, and been Music Directors for a Bible College….but this Sunday, they’re at CLC!

We’re excited about catching up this weekend, and they’ll bless our MEGA leadership gathering on Saturday, have a session with musicians and singers from all 4 campuses, and then worship with us on Sunday as well. Can’t wait-

Best laid plans of mice and men…

Posted on February 1, 2011 by admin

We announced last Sunday that this week was the beginning of our winter season of ministry, with a full slate of Life Groups, Heart to Heart, Consumed Student Ministries & more all getting started.

Mother Nature (or Father God) had other ideas.

Instead, our office will be closed tomorrow (Wednesday, Feb. 2) and there will be NO services or meetings at the church, due to this major winter storm we’re experiencing. Please be safe and stay warm, everyone!

And let’s come together this Sunday expecting GREAT things as we continue our “GROW” series!

Saddest day of the year…

Posted on February 1, 2011 by admin

Well, I had a little fun Sunday with that MSNBC report that British psychologists at the University of Cardiff in Wales had determined that the last Monday of January was the “saddest day of the year”……but it does seem that the first Tuesday of February in Chicago may be…..at least if the forecasts of blizzard-like conditions and over 20″ of snow in the next day or so hold true.

I hope that all my Chicagoland readers will stay safe if you must be on the roads, and stay warm, too!

If you’re planning to attend any of the midweek ministries (Heart to Heart; Consumed; etc.), please check our website before venturing out – we’ll post an announcement by noon tomorrow to let everyone know if those ministries will be meeting, or if we’ll cancel due to the weather.

We’ll also post the announcement on our Facebook page – so if you’re not already a friend, why not go there now and befriend us.

Meanwhile, I’m looking forward to my upcoming ministry trip to the Philippines, where it never snows!

3-minute prayer

Posted on January 6, 2011 by admin

Actually, the prayer didn’t last quite that long (although I loved the worship he led afterwards!), but this 5-year old from Bishop T.D. Jakes sure showed us all how it’s done!

If you haven’t seen this already and you’ve got about 4 minutes to spare, take a look (and enjoy!)

That should get you in the mood for our 21-days of Prayer & Fasting this Jan. 10-31 – if you haven’t downloaded your personal devotional guide yet, get it here.

Daniel fasting

Posted on January 4, 2011 by admin

I know many (most?) of the CLCers who join us for 21 days of prayer & fasting this Jan. 10-30 will likely choose to do a “Daniel fast” rather than a water fast or juice fast – and there are great suggestions in the online resource (prayer & fasting devotional guide) I’ve been mentioning of late.

You can also order meals for a Daniel fast from a faithful CLC caterer.

But the main purpose of this post is that my friend Mark Batterson did a great post here about Daniel’s fast – and the resolution that changed everything. Read and heed!

15 minutes a day…

Posted on January 4, 2011 by admin

That’s really not much….for any of us. If nothing else (for those of you who think your schedule is just too packed), would you set the alarm 15 minutes earlier? Or go to bed 15 minutes later?

The reason I ask is because the dividends are SO great…..when you spend those 15 minutes reading God’s Word every day. In the next 362 days, you will have read the entire Bible! Imagine the spiritual growth that’ll happen…..the life lessons you’ll learn…..the promises you’ll be able to claim…..the warnings you’ll be able to heed…..the truths that you will learn….. the reminders you’ll receive of things once-known-but-forgotten-in-the-busyness-of-life!

Most important of all (I think) is that by becoming familiar with His written Word, you’ll learn to recognize His voice when He speaks to your heart, too!

We’ve got a daily reading chart for you at CLC (get yours at Connections at any campus), or you can choose from several daily reading plans here, thanks to our friends at LifeChurch.tv

What are you waiting for? Get started today!

Welcome, 2011!

Posted on January 1, 2011 by admin

Last night was as much FUN as I’ve had in church in a long time!

If you weren’t there, we followed tradition (sort-of) by having a New Year’s Eve “watch service” – except we didn’t go until midnight, which was a blessing in 4 ways:

it kept us out of harm’s way from the fools who shoot off handguns at midnight-

it kept us off the streets, safe from all the drunk drivers after midnight-

we finished in time for folks to go to dinner with friends or even attend a NYE party, if they so chose

it meant old folks like me still got to bed at a decent hour instead of trying to pretend I’m young enough to stay up past midnight!

Instead, from 6pm until about 7:50pm, we had a little of everything: worship, water baptism, prayer, missions, exhortations, Jamaica mon, Israel video, testimonies, and even a fake countdown at the end! But what was especially fun to me were the testimonies – all different; all heartfelt; and all powerful reminders of the faithfulness of God!

So, knowing He was faithful even during a difficult year for many of us, I can’t wait to see what 2011 holds in store, beginning tomorrow morning when we welcome the ministry of Pastor Scott Williams from LifeChurch.tv! (for more info about this, check out my previous post here)

I hope you’ll start the new year off right by being in God’s house!

Sad news…..grateful news

Posted on December 31, 2010 by admin

I received a phone call from Pastor Bill Wilson yesterday, with news that saddened me greatly, while making me very grateful at the same time.

The sad news is that despite the incredible response from CLCers (see previous posts here and here), little Jason from Kenya died on December 23, just four days before his scheduled surgery. Sadder still is that Pastor Bill had tried to schedule the surgery earlier thanks to our generosity, but ran into numerous snags with the hospital and couldn’t get on their schedule until Dec. 27 – and Jason’s tumor erupted and caused him to bleed out before anything could be done. So sad.

As Pastor Bill told me the news, his voice broke and he began to cry – and that touched me all the more. Here’s this ‘legend’ of a man, who is currently helping 40,000 children around the world every week, and who has ministered to the most difficult situations in the inner city of New York for almost 30 years – yet he’s still broken over one who couldn’t get helped in time. I love the fact that CLC is able to partner with ‘rea’ people like Pastor Bill – people who have a heart and compassion for others, and who serve with such integrity that we can rest in the knowledge that our dollars are being used to make a difference in the lives of so many. (I didn’t have any doubts before yesterday, but the phone call brought this reality to my mind again.)

In fact, the monies that we gave in November are establishing a memorial foundation in Jason’s name, and will be used to help other children in desperate need like Jason – before it’s too late.

Thank you, CLC, and thank you, Pastor Bill Wilson.

Guest speaker to Kick-off the NEW YEAR!

Posted on December 30, 2010 by admin

Don’t think we’ve ever done this before, but we’re beginning the New Year this Sunday with a special guest speaker who’s never been to CLC before.

Scott Williams is a campus pastor at one of the largest churches in America, Lifechurch.tv, where one of my heroes, Craig Groeschel, is the founder/senior pastor. But that’s an understatement. Scott started a new campus for LifeChurch in 2007, and today more than 3,500 people worship there – in less than 4 years!

We’re specifically bringing him to CLC to spend some time Monday & Tuesday with our campus pastors (hoping what’s on him will rub off on us!), but I’m also excited about the word he’ll bring to us at all 3 services this Sunday, January 2, 2011! Invite a friend – let’s start the New Year off right!

(Speaking of the New Year, here’s a great resource to help start preparing ourselves for the 21-days of prayer & fasting this January 10-30 – it’s gonna be life-changing!)

Closing out 2010

Posted on December 29, 2010 by admin

Happiness is all about focus. (Have you noticed?)

Plenty of examples in Scripture, but probably none better than the 12 spies sent out by Moses to look over the Land of Promise to ‘encourage’ the hearts of the Israeli’s (see Numbers 13). Two of them did just that – with a great report about houses they wouldn’t have to build, vineyards they wouldn’t have to plant, a land flowing with milk & honey, and grapes so big it took two men to carry one cluster!

While at the same time ten men only saw giants & obstacles (and themselves like grasshoppers). It all depends on what you focus on.

I know 2010 has been a tough year for many: unemployment, mortgage foreclosures, losses of various kinds. My wife and I have felt like it was the most difficult year we’ve ever experienced in ministry. But that’s not gonna be our focus come Friday night at 6pm. Huh-uh! We’re gonna party!

We’re going to spend an hour & a half with our CLC family, looking back on the good things God did in 2010, and anticipating His good plans for 2011! We’ll worship; we’ll hear testimonies; we’ll re-live some of the highlights though video; we’ll even celebrate in baptism (if you want to be added to the list for baptism, please let us know here).

I really hope you’ll join us – 607:30pm at the Tinley Park campus. Wear your dancing shoes!

P.S. How fitting as we close this year to welcome one of our Messianic partners from Israel to CLC, as Jonathan & Simcha Moore from Jerusalem will be our guests. They’re a part of Revive Israel, one of our strategic partners in reaching the Jewish people, and they’ll bring a good report of the work that’s happening in the Land. Don’t miss this Friday night!

Communion at CLC

Posted on December 28, 2010 by admin

I get more questions about this than anything, hands-down.

Sometimes the question is whether we even believe in communion (asked by folks who’ve worshiped with us repeatedly but never when we observed the Lord’s Supper together).

So today I have both an explanation and an announcement:

First the explanation: I come from a background/tradition that taught Communion was an annual observance, since it is the New Covenant memorial that we knew in the Old Testament as Passover. (And Passover came only once a year, when Israel remembered their deliverance from Egypt, made possible by the sacrifice of the passover lamb – see Exodus 12).

On the other hand, many CLCers come from a tradition where Communion was celebrated much more often, some even weekly, and perhaps most on a monthly basis.

As I’ve pondered what we should do at CLC, it’s become even more complicated by our multiple-service schedule and the fact that we’re always on a tight time schedule, whereas my understanding of the New Testament is that communion is perhaps the most sacred observance we ever share together, and certainly should not be rushed through.

Finally, there is the warning in 1Cor. 11:27-31 about the serious consequences that can occur when people participate in this observance without proper understanding and approach – combined with the fact that our Sunday services always include unbelievers and seekers (and the last thing I’d want to do is encourage their participation in ignorance, resulting in a lack of benefit and perhaps even judgment).

So we’ve struggled with how often and when to offer communion. We’ve tried several approaches, including the first Wednesday of the month (which eliminated the last concern about seekers, but never seemed to attract enough believers to truly meet the need), and with similar results during the special Sunday evening “encounter” services.

In a recent discussion with our pastoral staff, we think we may have hit upon a potential solution to our dilemma (ready for the announcement?):

we’re going to offer communion during worship on the first Sunday morning of each month in 2011.

Here’s how it will work: during the worship set in each service, our elders will be serving the communion elements in the altar area. Anyone who wishes to participate can come forward, receive the individual cup containing the bread and the juice, and serve themselves while worship continues. You can do so in the altar area or return to your chair to observe, whichever you prefer. We think the atmosphere of worship should be conducive to the proper approach to receiving the body and blood of the Lord. The elders will remain in the altar area for anyone who wants to receive prayer during this time as well.

We’ll try this plan for the first time THIS Sunday, January 2, 2011 and I look forward to see how it goes – so feel free to weigh in with your thoughts afterwards.

And remember, every time we do this, we proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes! (1Cor. 11:26)

What if it happened today?

Posted on December 23, 2010 by admin

Someone sent this to me and I thought it was worth passing along: (gotta admit – it does make you ask yourself how Jesus’ birth might appear in the news today)

INFANT DISCOVERED IN BARN, CHILD PROTECTIVE SERVICES LAUNCH PROBE
Nazareth Carpenter Being Held On Charges Involving Underage Mother

Bethlehem, Judea – Authorities were today alerted by a concerned citizen who noticed a family living in a barn. Upon arrival, Family Protective Service personnel, accompanied by police, took into protective care an infant child named Jesus, who had been wrapped in strips of cloth and placed in a feeding trough by his 14-year old mother, Mary of Nazareth.

During the confrontation, a man identified as Joseph, also of Nazareth, attempted to stop the social workers. Joseph, aided by several local shepherds and some unidentified foreigners, tried to forestall efforts to take the child, but were restrained by the police.

Also being held for questioning are three foreigners who allege to be wise men from an eastern country. The INS and Homeland Security officials are seeking information about these who may be in the country illegally. A source with the INS states that they had no passports, but were in possession of gold and other possibly illegal substances. They resisted arrest saying that they had been warned by God to avoid officials in Jerusalem and to return quickly to their own country. The chemical substances in their possession will be tested.

The owner of the barn is also being held for questioning. The manager Bethlehem Inn faces possible revocation of his license for violating health and safety regulations by allowing people to stay in the stable. Civil authorities are also investigating the zoning violations involved in maintaining livestock in a commercially-zoned district.

The location of the minor child will not be released, and the prospect for a quick resolution to this case is doubtful. Asked about when Jesus would be returned to his mother, a Child Protective Service spokesperson said, “The father is middle-aged and the mother definitely underage. We are checking with officials in Nazareth to determine what their legal relationship is.

Joseph has admitted taking Mary from her home in Nazareth because of a census requirement. However, because she was obviously pregnant when they left, investigators are looking into other reasons for their departure. Joseph is being held without bond on charges of molestation, kidnapping, child endangerment, and statutory rape.

Mary was taken to the Bethlehem General Hospital where she is being examined by doctors. Charges may also be filed against her for endangerment. She will also undergo psychiatric evaluation because of her claim that she is a virgin and that the child is from God.

The director of the psychiatric wing said, “I don’t profess to have the right to tell people what to believe, but when their beliefs adversely affect the safety and well-being of others – in this case her child – we must consider her a danger to others. The unidentified drugs at the scene didn’t help her case, but I’m confidant that with the proper therapy regiment we can get her back on her feet.”

A spokesperson for the governor’s office said, “Who knows what was going through their heads? But regardless, their treatment of the child was inexcusable, and the involvement of these others frightening. There is much we don’t know about this case, but for the sake of the child and the public, you can be assured that we will pursue this matter to the end.”

I like the version in Luke 2 much better. I hope you’re ready for a GREAT celebration of His first coming – join us Christmas Eve at 5pm or December 26 at 10am at the Tinley Park campus, as we conclude our series, “A Baby Changes Everything”, with a look at the Prince of Peace!

THIS WEEKEND!

Posted on December 9, 2010 by admin

I know; I know. As a pastor, I’m supposed to be excited about upcoming events at CLC – I mean, you expect that of me, right?

But this weekend goes beyond the norm. And not because it’s my job to feel that way.

I’m really pumped, jazzed, geeked, and excited about TWO major events happening this weekend:

Christmas Presence is the wonderful, sight-and-sound extravaganza all about the joys of Christmas, as shown in song, dance and story – and it’s our #1 production at CLC. Not only that, but it’s the BEST opportunity I know of for you to invite your unchurched friends or family members to a fun, non-threatening, non-guilt-trip-inducing experience. And you have 3 different opportunities to choose from: this Friday at 7:30pm; this Saturday at 5pm; and this Sunday also at 5pm. All performances will be held in the auditorium of All Nations Church in nearby Homewood, which enables us to reach twice as many people as we can accommodate in our auditorium.

It’s not too late, but you must act fast, as today (Thursday, Dec. 9) is the last day to purchase tickets: get your tickets online now!

This Sunday, at each CLC campus, we’re receiving our special “Christmas Offering”, featuring the “Gifts Outside the Box” catalog. If you haven’t done so yet, I urge you to sit down with your family and choose the ‘gifts’ with which you want to bless our missions partners this Christmas. (If you don’t want to take the time to look through the catalog, let me remind you that all undesignated gifts for our ‘Christmas offering’ will go to help needy families in Chicagoland and Michiana, as well as providing clean-water wells through our missions team in Peru next summer).

Last year CLCers like you gave over $25,000 to meet these kind of needs through our Christmas offering, and I’m believing we’ll be able to help even more people this year!

Please take some time between now and Sunday to look through the catalog and have fun! (2Cor 9:7)

I can’t wait for this weekend!

A tribute to Steve & Shae Wasmundt

Posted on December 8, 2010 by admin

By now you’ve probably heard the news that our Worship Pastors for the past 15 years have sensed their season is ending at CLC, and will be relocating to Florida in January. When they first told me, I wasn’t ready to accept it, and tried hard to talk them out of leaving. However, the truth is that they don’t work for me, they work for the same Master that I do. And when He speaks, we better listen!

In this case, Steve & Shae obeyed His instructions by coming to Chicago back in 1996, even though CLC was too small to pay them a decent salary, and neither of them wanted to live in a big city. They have followed His leading closely all through the years, which only increased their value to us, and they have obviously fulfilled their assignment here by raising up musicians and singers who lead all of us into His manifest Presence every single time we come together in worship.

What makes them all the more remarkable is that they have never sought the spotlight, and they shy away from speaking in public. But they have impacted and imparted to all of us, not so much with their words as with their life. For all along the way, they have been examples to us all – of a godly marriage, of partnering in ministry, of bringing up our children to serve the Lord with gladness, even of suffering through the physical health challenges of the past few years with smiles and faith, instead of complaints.

Their maturity and experience in ministry has been a wonderful asset behind the scenes, even as CLC has grown amid the storms and challenges that come to any ministry. They’ve been real friends to me and my wife, not just co-workers. Most of all, they have walked in an anointing that has caused worship to become a core value at CLC corporately, and a lifestyle for many of us personally.

Now that their Master is calling them to a new assignment elsewhere, how could we possibly hold them back or stand in their way?

Instead, we want to give them a grand send-off, with a special tribute on Sunday, December 19 at all 3 services in Tinley Park. We’re going to do it up right, so there will no doubt be both tears and laughter, and we’ll close each service with a special love-offering to bless them on their new assignment. I hope you’ll make plans to join me in celebrating the past 15 years of their ministry at CLC, and come prepared to bless them financially as well.

I think it’ll be a day we’ll all long remember!

We love you, Steve & Shae. Merry Christmas!

Congratulations!

Posted on December 6, 2010 by admin

As promised, our Missions Directors, Scott & Nannette Pachol did a drawing in each service at Tinley Park yesterday for some 2011 mission trip awards:

at 8am, Stephanie Bell won the airfare for the trip to France next April 25-May 2

at 9:30am, there was a little confusion that I should explain: my daughter’s name was first drawn as the winner. However, since we often send a CLC staffer to help lead trips, we didn’t feel anyone from our staff should win the awards – so we drew again, and Dan Vascik won the airfare for the trip to Ankara, Turkey next May 23-30. Jen will also be helping to lead this trip, since she’s experienced in both areas of ministry our partners have requested (children’s ministry and worship ministry), and missions is in her blood!

at 11:30am, Cassandra (Howell) Morales won the airfare to Senegal for the trip next November 4-12.

That makes a total of 9 different people from the Tinley Park campus who received awards for a 2011 missions trip, with 3 of those being selected at the International Dinner (Grace Schaper – airfare to Belize next July 15-23; Jennea Bivens – airfare to the trip of her choice in 2011; and Marvella Williams – grand prize winner of all-expense paid trip of her choice in 2011), and 2 of our students who submitted the winning essays at Consumed last week – Jaunine Hackmon and Angelica Tirado, each of whom receive the airfare to Medellin, Colombia next June 20-27!

Emma Woodruff from our Shorewood campus won the airfare award for the Colombia trip, and we’re still awaiting the drawings from Lisle for the Philippines trip next July 1-12, from Centro de Vida Cristiana for the trip to Peru next June 9-18, and from South Bend for the trip to Israel next Nov 26-Dec 6.

CONGRATS to each of these winners – but really & truly, everyone who makes a missions trip is a WINNER! Hope you’ll pray about joining us in 2011-

‘Tis the Season…..

Posted on December 1, 2010 by admin

…..to INVITE!

(important note: I wrote this post prior to our sermon-planning meeting on Tuesday, and during the meeting our team gave me fresh ideas & insights that make this week’s message SO much better, so as you read this post, just triple the intensity – that’s how I’m feeling now!)

I know you’ve heard it before, but that doesn’t make it any less true: the overwhelming majority of unchurched Americans say they would accept an invitation to attend church from a friend who asks!

If that’s true all year long, I’ve got to believe it’s even MORE true during the Christmas season, when it seems everyone gets into the holiday spirit and even folks who don’t go to church know that the core of this season is about the birth of Jesus.

That’s why I’m SO jazzed about our December series, “A Baby Changes Everything”, from Isaiah 9:6. IMAGINE: four straight weeks of lifting up Jesus as we look at those amazing descriptions of who He is! He Himself said, “if I be lifted up, I will draw all men unto me” – and while the literal meaning of that verse refers to the manner of His death (John 12), certainly the principle holds true: when we exalt Him, people are drawn to Christ!

Then add to those 4 Sundays the 3 exciting performances of Christmas Presence (get your tickets here) AND our special Christmas Eve celebration on December 24 at 5pm, and you’ll see why I’m saying:

“I believe this December we could see more of our friends, co-workers and family members come to Christ than any other month in our history!”

But for that to happen, each of us must do 2 things: invite, invite, invite! (That’s not 3 things, that’s just 1) AND pray, pray, pray – asking the Lord to draw those we invite to Himself. Will you do it?

The whole series begins this Sunday with a look at “Wonderful Counselor”, and I’m already pumped to share some things about Him in that role that you may not have considered before…..so don’t delay: begin inviting people today!

I can’t wait!

A baby changes everything!

Black Friday shopping

Posted on November 26, 2010 by admin

This is the day retailers all over America look forward to. Historically, many of them lose money all year long and finally get “in the black” due to all the Christmas shoppers on the day after Thanksgiving. My guess is that many of you are probably out shopping already, and won’t read this post until hours or days later!

But I just wanted to take this opportunity to tell you again about our “Gifts Outside the Box” opportunity. It’s a Christmas catalog we created at CLC, listing various needs from our missionary partners around the world, with items ranging from $1 to $5,000 – and everywhere in between.

It’s a holiday shopping opportunity like no other in that your gift is guaranteed to be the right size, much needed and greatly appreciated!

Another thing: you can do this shopping without ever getting out in the cold – as some of the other online merchants have said, “you can shop in your underwear”. (Just don’t tell us if you choose that option – some things we don’t need to know)

I hope you’ll do what I’m gonna do today – avoid the crowds, the traffic around the mall, and the frustrations that come with Black Friday – and do some shopping right here instead. Best of all, your gift(s) will make a difference in someone’s life for eternity! What could be better than that?

I’m thankful…..

Posted on November 24, 2010 by admin

Thought I’d get a headstart on the most Christian holiday of the year. (Yeah, I mean it. Since Easter has been downgraded to new clothes & chocolate bunnies, and Christmas has become SO commercialized, I think Thanksgiving is the ‘Christian’ holiday – except we should be thankful every day of the year, not just on a certain Thursday in November!)

Pastor Bill Wilson w/Jason & his dad, who was collecting quarters & dollars in the paper sack to raise money for the surgery

At any rate, I’m thankful (and still amazed) that we were able to send a check yesterday via FedEx to Metro Ministries for more than twelve thousand dollars that CLCers gave this past Sunday to help a 10-year-old boy named Jason, from Nukuru, Kenya to receive a life-saving operation!

I’m thankful to be a part of a church family that ALWAYS responds to genuine needs.

and she's beautiful, too!

I’m thankful for a faithful wife who has stood by my side for almost 38 years. In my opinion, she’s simply amazing!

I’m thankful for our children, Chad (and Dorothy), Jen, Brent (and Sol) and our adorable grandson, Jaeden. We have been blessed!

Dorothy & Chad in LA

Jen, with our granddog, Joey

Brent, Sol & Jaeden (they're part of our Lisle campus)

And I’m thankful to live in this country, even with all it’s problems, where we still have liberty & freedom to GIVE THANKS to our God for all His bountiful blessings upon us!

Enjoy your holiday – hug your family & friends close, and don’t forget to give HIM thanks!

Holiday news

Posted on November 23, 2010 by admin

We all know that when Thanksgiving comes, Christmas is just around the corner – so let me give you a heads-up about holiday opportunities for every CLCer:

1. We’ll spend each Sunday in December with a sermon series that is tailor-made for inviting your unchurched friends & family: “A Baby Changes Everything”. It will be based on Isaiah 9:6, and we’ll focus on those four aspects of Jesus each Sunday: Wonderful Counselor; Mighty God; Everlasting Father; Prince of Peace. I can’t imagine a better opportunity to reach people with the Good News of Christmas, so I hope you’ll invite, invite, invite!

2. Christmas Presence! For several years, this has been our #1 outreach to the community, and several families are now a part of our church family because someone invited them to this wonderful Christmas production. (If you haven’t attended, let me just say that it’s NOT your typical ‘church musical’ or Christmas play. It’s a multi-sensory extravaganza of song & dance & more, with something for the entire family!) I urge you to get your tickets here (or in the CLC-TP lobby each Sunday), and buy some extra for your family and friends.

3. Christmas weekend services – this year, we’re planning identical services on Christmas Eve (Friday, December 24) at 5pm, and Sunday, December 26 at 10am ONLY (we’re not doing 3 services on Sunday to give our volunteers & staff an opportunity to enjoy the holiday with their families instead). You can choose between those 2 services – and again, it should be a perfect evangelism opportunity – so bring a friend!

4. New Year’s Eve service – Friday, December 31 at 6pm. This is always a fun time as we look back at this 20th anniversary year and look ahead to what God has in store for us in the year to come. I’m also excited to announce that we’ve confirmed a visit from one of our partners in Israel, as Jonathan & Simcha Moore from Revive Israel in Jerusalem will be our guests that evening!

Chris & I pray that you have a wonderful time this week reflecting on your many blessings and enjoying family or friends – then get ready for these great December opportunities!

Christmas catalog

Posted on November 8, 2010 by admin

At CLC, we believe in ‘stealing’ good ideas wherever we find them – and our friend, Pastor Mark Batterson, shared this idea with us from National Community Church. It’s a ‘Christmas Catalog’ comprised of needs from our missions partners around the world, and we’re hoping to meet many of those needs on December 12 with our special “Christmas offering” at each campus of CLC.

We distributed the catalog in our services yesterday, but you can view the online version here. There are gift suggestions ranging from $1 to $2,000 – so there’s something for every budget. Since God loves a “hilarious” giver (2Cor 9:7), I hope you’ll have fun with your family, looking through these pages to choose the gift(s) you want to give this Christmas season, to be a blessing to the Nations and meet needs for our partners from Chicagoland to Chandighar!

Happy shopping!

It’s NOT too late!

Posted on November 3, 2010 by admin

I just learned that we still have tickets available for our annual International Dinner this Sunday in Tinley Park.

As I explained Sunday morning, this is always one of the highlights of the year, with great food, great fellowship, and a real missions emphasis, as we look at past CLC trips and unveil the 2011 opportunities for you to travel in missions.

Of course, there’s also the big drawing for AWARDS for those 2011 trips, with someone winning an all-expenses paid trip of your choice from the eight destinations we’ve planned for next year. Other awards for airfare to those trips will also be given, so you have an excellent chance of spending $12 and going home with $1,000 or $1,500 or even $2,500 for your investment!

I really want you to join us – and I believe you’ll enjoy the evening – so go online now and purchase your tickets while they’re still available!

Egypt, Day 5

Posted on October 29, 2010 by admin

Well, due to the conference schedule being moved up a day (after we had purchased non-refundable, non-changeable tickets), Chris & I had an extra day in Cairo all by ourselves (the other speakers all left early this morning). I had heard that the Egyptian Museum in Cairo was world-class, so we took a shuttle down and spent a good part of the day exploring ancient Egyptian history.

What. a. day. If you ever find yourself in Cairo with nothing to do, I highly recommend the Museum. We saw objects that predated Moses by 500 years, perfectly preserved! We also saw more mummies than you can imagine, as well as all the artifacts buried with them. Suffice it to say that ancient Egypt was VERY concerned with eternal life, and they spared no effort in trying to prepare their kings for life after death. (Gotta be a sermon in there somewhere)

We weren’t allowed to take pictures inside, so I’ve only got a few from outside on the grounds of the museum for you below. We’ll be headed to the airport to catch our return flight home, and can’t wait to see all of you along with Dr. Bill Hamon at CLC-TP this Sunday!

An Egyptian goddess and a very godly woman (on the grounds of the museum)

one of these is a statue, the other is alive

Chris outside the main entrance to the Egyptian Museum

a Canadian tourist volunteered to take this pic so you could see we were here at the same time!

Violated!

Posted on October 21, 2010 by admin

That’s how two of my children felt this morning when they got ready to leave for work, only to discover that, during the night, someone had broken into their cars and stolen personal items, including credit cards, etc. All in all, it made for a very frustrating day, contacting banks to cancel cards, contacting insurance companies to file claims, contacting a repair shop to replace the window that had been smashed to gain access to one of the cars, and more. There were tears and anger and anxiety all around! My daughter said it best when she said, “I just feel so violated!”

If you’ll forgive the preacher in me, it made me reflect on how we all should feel about the enemy of our soul, who violates us every day, in his efforts to steal, kill & destroy (John 10:10). Without a doubt, Satan is the biggest rip-off artist ever, and worst of all, much of the time we’re not even aware of his activity.

He steals from you every time you accept his lies about what God does or doesn’t want for you. He steals from you every time you believe his lie that ‘things will always be this way’. He steals from you every time you settle for less than what God has promised you in His Word. You’ve been violated!

I think it’s time Christians got angry! Righteous indignation is a good thing. More importantly, let’s use our anger as a motivation to NOT buy into his lies and NOT settle for less than ALL that God has for us!

This Sunday we’ll see how unforgiveness (one of his favorite tactics) can prevent us from having the marriage or other healthy relationships that God intended, and, more importantly, what we can do about it. Hope you’ll invite a friend and join me at CLC-Tinley Park for the final installment of our “Once Upon a Marriage” series.

Get ready for some good stuff!

Posted on October 19, 2010 by admin

Just finished up our weekly pastor’s meeting where (among other things) we discussed the last message of this series and did some brainstorming for November and December. I know; I know – you’re going to say that I always think the current series is the “most important one ever” at CLC – but I gotta tell you: we’ve got some good stuff coming up!

I’ll have more to say about November in a future post, but THIS SUNDAY in Tinley Park, we’ll take a good look at one of the most needful but difficult issues in any marriage: forgiveness.

Our Bible couple for the day is Gomer and Hosea (just in case, Gomer is the wife’s name; Hosea is the husband who also happened to be a prophet, with a whole book of the Bible named after him). Scripture doesn’t pull any punches in showing us their mistakes, including her repeated infidelity, and the heartache that resulted – but yet the HOPE that ultimately shines through because of God’s grace!

For this very important message, we’ve asked John & Minnie Hardy to be our guest speakers at each campus. Many of you know them from their years as elders here at the Tinley Park campus prior to helping launch the Shorewood campus in 2007, where they continue to serve faithfully. We’ve also ordained them as pastors in their own work with “Make Us One Ministries”. They will be sharing candidly from their own experiences, and I know it’s going to be a life-changing time for some married couples, as we see that forgiveness works, and that there is hope even after the marriage covenant has been broken.

I urge you to invite a friend to join you for this final installment of “Once Upon a Marriage“!

Keep the main thing the main thing!

Posted on October 14, 2010 by admin

I heard that quote many years ago, but today I saw the prime example of it.

My wife & I have both been wanting to shed a few pounds for quite some time. She hits the gym religiously, and I, well, I just kinda want to shed some pounds. So a month or so ago, after talking about it for months, we finally decided to go on one of those weight-loss meal plans that you see advertised on TV all the time. (No, I won’t reveal the name in this post – don’t really think that’s fair)

Here’s what I can tell you about this meal plan:

1. Their marketing is wonderful. Really – they use real people (usually celebrities that you know about) telling their story of losing significant weight with this meal plan. Very convincing. And they have medically-sound, scientifically-proven formulas whether you’re male or female, diabetic, high-cholesterol – you name it, they advertise a program just for you!

2. Their customer service is off the charts. I mean that; I don’t think I’ve ever spoken to a customer service rep that was more courteous, helpful or eager to please as their reps, and I spoke to more than one in the last month.

3. Their pricing was surprisingly (to me) reasonable. I mean, in today’s economy, we’re all looking for a good value, and I was pleasant surprised by their bottom line.

4. Their food was inedible. Seriously. Gag. me. with. a. spoon. I know everyone’s taste buds are different (which is another reason I won’t name the company here), but Chris & I just couldn’t handle the food – in spite of the fact that we’re both motivated to lose weight.

So today, when I boxed up all the stuff we couldn’t eat to ship it back to them (their customer service was so great, they didn’t even try to talk me into keeping it & they offered a full refund for everything we returned), it got me thinking: it really doesn’t matter if your marketing & customer service & pricing is wonderful, if the food isn’t good, who cares?

Good lesson for us pastors. It really doesn’t matter about your strategy or your structure or a hundred other things that we pastors stay awake nights worrying about. If the ‘food’ we serve on Sundays (and I don’t just mean the teaching; I mean the whole worship experience) isn’t palatable, I doubt anyone is going to notice our great strategy or structure or….

Come to think of it, that’s a good lesson for marriage, too. You can provide a beautiful home and all the ‘stuff’ that goes with it. Send your kids to private school. Read the books, listen to the CD’s, go to the conferences. But if you don’t take time to build and maintain your relationship, it’s probably not going to matter in the long run.

Good lesson for life: keep the main thing the main thing!

Any other examples that you could share?

When life doesn’t go as planned…

Posted on October 13, 2010 by admin

That’s what Chris & I will be talking about this Sunday in the next installment of our “Once Upon a Marriage” series. I just finished up my notes a little while ago, and I gotta tell you: I think this may be the highlight of the entire series!

Just as importantly, the lessons we’ll look at this week will apply to anyone – married, divorced, single, young, old, middle-aged – literally wherever you are in life, you need to know how to handle it when things don’t go as planned. Why? Because life seldom goes the way we plan!

Why not take time out, right now, and invite someone to be your guest this Sunday at any service in Tinley Park (8, 9:30 or 11:30 a.m.) We’ll be unveiling some other cool things this Sunday, too, so it’s going to be a good day in God’s house.

CAN’T WAIT!

I like this!

Posted on October 5, 2010 by admin

Just finished another looooooong meeting, which is pretty typical of my Tuesdays. And when I trudged back down the hall to my office, ready to start tackling my work, one of the first things I saw was this post from Pastor Steven Furtick.

I’ve never met Steven, so all I know about him is what I’ve heard and read on his blog – which is awfully impressive: a young man in his 20′s who started a church in Charlotte, NC from scratch and has reached 5,000 in attendance in the first 4 years!

But what I especially like is today’s post – even though I realize that I have to deal with negative stuff & problem-solving just like anyone else in any job on earth, he sure makes a lot of sense to me. And I know that I can’t afford to let my faith weaken.

Thank God for the great staff of leaders & pastors at CLC who sincerely try to keep me out of the weeds so I can stay focused on hearing from the Lord! I need you, and I’m thankful that you’re on my team!

To all my single friends…

Posted on September 30, 2010 by admin

One of the neat things about the internet is how you can connect with people you might never know otherwise. I’ve met Perry Noble and follow his blog regularly; this week he featured a post from a friend of his that I’ve never met, Clayton King – and I thought this was too good not to pass on to you.

Read Clayton’s post here.

That leads me to tell you that our new series at CLC is going to be AWESOME, whether you’re married or single – since if you’re married, there’s always room for improvement, and if you’re single, one of the best ways to have a successful marriage is to prepare for one!

It starts THIS SUNDAY in Tinley Park and South Bend; next week in Shorewood and Lisle. Can’t wait!

what you may not know about me…

Posted on September 27, 2010 by admin

Thought I’d start off this Monday morning with something a little different…..

I don’t know Pastor Ron Edmondson personally, but another pastor friend passed this on to me, and it’s worth repeating, just as it is. So if you want to know a little more about me (and probably a whole lot of pastors), here it is.

Oh, just one thing I’d add to his list: I really hope there are no pastoral emergencies tonight, because I’m looking forward to watching the entire Bears game for the first time this season…..unless the Pack gets out to a big lead early, in which case, maybe a hospital call or some marriage counseling wouldn’t be so bad…..

Are you man enough?

Posted on September 24, 2010 by admin

Just went out for a quick lunch, and saw our marquee for the first time, “Are you man enough?”

Not even sure who decided to put that up (one of the GREAT things about CLC is that I don’t have to know everything about everything or make every decision about what goes on around here!)……but in case you’re wondering, I like it!

Let’s face it, manhood in our day is under attack. Even the cover story of the latest issue of Newsweek talks about the decline of men, and their need to be made whole again!

Sounds to me like a GREAT time for CLC men to join me and a bunch of other guys at our Men’s Retreat next week. This Sunday will be the last opportunity to register at any of our campuses, or you can do it the easy way online NOW. Cost is just $50 for masculine meals & manly snacks from Friday night through Saturday afternoon, along with guy-games and testosterone-laced competition, along with straight talk from the Bible and some no-wimp prayer times. Register here and meet us at Camp Friedenswald in Cassopolis, MI this Friday!

ONE MORE THING: this is also your last call to invite someone to be your guest for Friend Day at CLC-Tinley Park this Sunday. Just think: how cool it would be if the person you invited today would meet Jesus on Sunday? Send an invite now, or better yet, pick up the phone and make the invitation personal.

a new ministry venture….

Posted on September 23, 2010 by admin

It’s a long story, and one that I didn’t see coming, but we’re embarking on a new ministry venture beginning Monday, October 4. Here’s the skinny:

a few weeks ago, I was approached by a representative of Salem Communications (one of the largest Christian media networks in the country), asking permission to submit our ministry to their approval process for a possible national radio slot. (I quickly agreed, since I didn’t expect anything to come from it anyway.)

To my surprise, we were approved, and asked to consider a national radio broadcast, or at least begin with a program in their national line-up on their Chicago station, WYLL (am1160)

I pondered the opportunity for almost a full week, but every single person I sought counsel from was positive that we should go for it, so we signed the contract yesterday afternoon, and the first broadcast will air on Oct. 4. We’ll be heard Monday-Friday at 10:30 a.m.

The main selling-point that swayed me is that this will give us an opportunity to get CLC’s message throughout Chicagoland, which hopefully will help bring exposure to each of our existing campuses, and also prepare the way for the launch of additional campuses in the future.

Of course, it takes finances to spread the Word via the airwaves. If you’re interested in partnering with us in this daily outreach, let us know here. If you’re a business owner, and would be interested in advertising your business as a broadcast sponsor, let us know here.

Meanwhile, I’m a little scared and a little excited, so I’d appreciate your prayers.

BY THE WAY, there’s still time for you to invite someone for FRIEND DAY at CLC-Tinley Park this Sunday – you could make a difference in someone’s life for eternity! Don’t put it off – invite them today.

Calling all MEN

Posted on September 20, 2010 by admin

Sometimes, guys just need to get together.

Sometimes, we need to talk about guy stuff, without any women around.

Sometimes, we need input from our pastor.

I’m not prejudiced, but something special happens when Christian men come together.

The time for all of this at CLC is quickly approaching. On Friday, October 1 and Saturday, Oct. 2, at Camp Freidenswald in Cassopolis, MI, we’ll gather as a group of CLC men for the first time in several years. We’ll play; we’ll eat; we’ll talk; (we’ll probably grunt & scratch, too – but that’s just part of being a guy) and most importantly, we’ll get in God’s Presence and hear from His Word, and we’ll go home as better husbands, fathers and men as a result.

Guys from every campus of CLC will be there. I’d love to have you join us – register online now.

If you have questions, ask them here.

Creeping things….

Posted on September 16, 2010 by admin

This is not a post about kosher foods & Peter’s vision in Acts 10-

Nor is it about gross-looking insects-

I’m talking about how we (all?) tend to make commitments of changed behaviors, and do good for a while, only to have the old behaviors start gradually creeping back in, a little at a time.

Case in point for me is the principle of sabbath. I’m convinced it’s not only a valid principle for us today, it’s necessary for us to maintain health & sanity in the crazy, hectic-paced world that we all live in. That’s NOT just true for pastors; it’s true for you, too.

For the past few years I have religiously observed a day off each week, to reconnect with Chris, recharge our batteries, and renew body and soul. But for the past several months, it seems like each day off, I ‘excuse’ just a little work-related activity: a few emails to answer; a few phone calls to accept; a little study for the next message, etc. It’s all just gradually creeping into my ‘normal’ day off that I really hadn’t noticed.

But I have noticed the affect it’s had: the diminishing returns off having a day off. So today I’m making a promise to myself & my wife: no cell phone….no email….no work. We’re taking a sabbath.

If you need something from either of us, it’ll have to wait ’til tomorrow.

I think the world will survive without me for one day.

The Father’s heart

Posted on September 15, 2010 by admin

For those of you who read my posts regularly, you know that I seldom re-post someone else’s stuff. I mean, after all, this is my blog, and you’re probably reading because you’re interested in what I have to say. (or your mother is making you….or you work on staff at CLC and know your job is in jeopardy if you don’t….regardless you get my point).

But this post from Perry Noble was just too good not to pass along. His experience with his little 3-year old daughter is a wake-up call for all of us about the heart of our Father.

I hope you’ll do something about it.

You could start here by inviting a friend to Friend Day on September 26 (that’s for our Tinley Park campus; each campus is celebrating on a specific Sunday, so check with your campus pastor for details)

I promise you that there are hungry and hurting people in your sphere of influence who WOULD accept an invitation to attend, if only you’ll ask. You may have to invite several to get to the ‘right’ one, but they’re out there.

September 26 is going to be a life-changing day for some. Why not your friend?

Lessons from the Lisle launch…

Posted on September 13, 2010 by admin

Been thinking a lot about yesterday’s Grand Opening of our 4th campus……here are some lessons I think worth passing on:

1. God’s plans are better than ours! We actually planned to launch the Lisle campus last February in a retail location. Then, March in a school. Then April at a sports center. Each time, the building fell through at the last-minute (the last time, literally the day that our marketing materials were to go to press!). Get this: had we opened at any of those times we planned, our launch team would have numbered in the 80′s or 90′s. Instead, we launched with a 50% larger team, including people in key positions with music, kids ministry & the Thrift store who were NOT part of the launch team until more recently! AND, we opened in a beautiful facility in a more visible location for LESS cost!

2. Persistence pays! Pastor Eric sent a press release to the local newspaper announcing the launch. Nothing happened. Instead of giving up, he sent another press release with a different focus, which resulted in a phone interview. That phone interview turned into a positive story prior to the Grand Opening, and there were people in the service yesterday who only heard about CLC through the newspaper article!

3. Teamwork makes the dream work! Yesterday was a HUGE win for CLC, but it would never have been possible without the incredible volunteers who came early, stayed late, did grunt work, smiled a lot, registered kids, passed our bulletins & offering buckets, played instruments, worked the audio board, adjusted lighting, served coffee, engaged guests in conversation, and a thousand other things. The buzz in the place was awesome….all because of people who served with joy! (And I’ve got to mention how proud I was to see Tinley Park & Shorewood CLCers there, just to show their support & provide some needed coaching in Kidstown check-in and media ministry, etc. In fact, virtually all of the TP folks who joined the launch team are serving in leadership roles – we really are ONE church!)

4. The future is bright! I couldn’t help but notice that the 6 people who touched a microphone yesterday before me were all under 40! In fact, the first 2 faces on stage were 20-somethings and there were other 20-somethings in key roles throughout the ministry. (Pastor Eric was the graybeard at 38). Can’t help but think that CLC’s best days are ahead of us, considering the young men & women across all our campuses that God is raising up!

5. Nothing beats a personal invitation! We spent a bunch of money on marketing the launch via direct mailings and TV spots (just as we did for our other launches), but the overwhelming majority of the new guests in Lisle yesterday came because they were invited by a friend. That didn’t make me feel bad about the money we spent on marketing; it made me feel good as we move forward because that means we didn’t just have a bunch of curiosity-seekers; we had people who already have a ‘CLC-connection’, which makes it much more likely they will return. Even the dozen or so who prayed to receive Christ were there because someone loved them enough to invite them.

(By the way, this last lesson is a shameless reminder of “Friend Day” in Tinley Park on September 26. YOU already know someone who would accept your invitation & come to visit…….if you invite them. Here’s a link to make it easy: send an e-vite to your friends now, and then follow-up with a phone call or in person.

Feeling good today.

Retreating forward!

Posted on September 11, 2010 by admin

My friend Mark Batterson says it well: “change of place + change of pace = change of perspective“.

Perhaps Andy Stanley captured it even better when he said, “sometimes we’re so busy working in the ministry that we never work on the ministry!”

I’m confident our time together on Friday night & Saturday with over 100 of CLC’s key leaders from each campus will prove to be time well spent as we prayed a lot, learned a lot about being effective in ministry, ATE a lot, laughed a lot, and talked a lot about fulfilling the vision that God has given us of multiplying! Enjoy a few pics-

cool stage for Lisle!

Jim on mentoring

Cheri on being mentored

Chris tells us "increase" is coming!

we all received!

Terrell led us into Presence

amazing youth leaders

Dan & Pat helping us 'delegate'

we even learned new techno tools

thanks to our great Media Director!

Poppy time

sorry Eric, Kristen gotcha!

food, Food, FOOD!

Doug & Shanna helped our families!

time to fellowship

Pastor Jaime prayed for us

ebony & ivory worship directors

William Arevalo & son worship

Zack ponders deep truth

workshops helped us!

oops, how did he get in here?

closing prayer/anointing

we prayed with & for each other...

all around the room

pastors need prayer

and pastors give prayer

when they weren't clowning, they led worship

each pastor shared

Multiplicity!

Posted on September 10, 2010 by admin

No, not talking about the movie with Michael Keaton (although parts of it were pretty funny) – I’m talking about multiplying CLC.

That’s actually the theme of our annual Leadership Gathering tonight and all-day tomorrow, when we’ll pour into our ‘leaders of leaders’ as we look at how to multiply campuses by multiplying our vision in order to multiply our ministry through multiplying our leaders who will multiply their teams by multiplying our effectiveness! (Whew, that’s a mouthful)

It’s always one of the highlights of the year for me, and this year’s gathering takes on extra-significance by coming on the eve of our GRAND OPENING of our 4th campus!

Let me just ask this: WHO could you still invite today? The call you’ve been putting off, or the personal invitation you’ve procrastinated could be the very ONE who would respond by attending this Sunday at 10:30 a.m. at the Hyatt of Lisle (corner of Rt. 53 and Warrenville Rd).

I’m serious. It might make an eternal difference in someone’s life. Pick up the phone. Shoot ‘em an e-vite.

And pray with me for the Holy Spirit to show up in a big way at the Hyatt on Sunday!

it’s about time!

Posted on September 9, 2010 by admin

Why is it that the ladies seem to get all the cool stuff?

Mother’s Day is always one of the big days on the church calendar, with a gift or flower for every mom in attendance-

Heart 2 Heart has all kinds of advantages: chair massages, spa-type pampering, special treats & more, every Wednesday-

Their retreat is always the bomb, every Spring, year after year

I think it’s about time CLC did something special just for MEN!

So I’m calling on all the guys to join me at a MEN’S RETREAT at Camp Friedenswald in nearby Cassopolis, Michigan this October 1-2!

There will be lots of guy-stuff – competitive games, manly-food, and testosterone-laced conversations, not to mention some great teaching about “The Blueprint for a Man of God”.

And it’s only $50 for your lodging, all meals & snacks, and all retreat materials. You can register at any CLC campus this Sunday, including our newest campus whose Grand Opening is this Sunday at the Hyatt of Lisle! Have you sent an e-vite to any of your friends yet?

Be there or be square.

I woke up this morning….

Posted on September 8, 2010 by admin

“with my mind, stayed on Jesus” (is how the old spiritual went – boy, a long time since I heard that song!). In my case, I woke up still jazzed about my Equip U class last night on “Preaching for Life Change”.

See, I’ve been preaching for over 40 years, and I’m still convinced that it’s the primary means to a healthy church, which is all I’ve ever wanted for CLC. (Healthy things grow)

As a pastor, nothing gives me more joy than passing on what I’ve learned to others – and over half of my class are young men & women who are coming up at CLC to impact the next generation. That’s exciting!

We even have 3 young men from our newest campus in Lisle, which will celebrate it’s GRAND OPENING this Sunday! I’m SO pumped about that, too – if you know anyone in the western suburbs, use this link to invite them to join us at the Hyatt of Lisle this Sunday at 10:30 a.m.

Now, I’m going to get to work….

CLC is a multi-site church!

Posted on September 7, 2010 by admin

As we’re counting down the final days until the Grand Opening of our newest campus (in Lisle, on Sunday, September 12!), I just received an interesting report from Leadership Network about the whole multi-site movement. (Full disclosure: CLC was one of the participating churches in the survey from which the report is based)

At any rate, I thought it was interesting reading, for those of you who may be curious about such things, or for pastors like me who eat, sleep, and think ‘church’ 24/7 (that’s not a good thing, by the way, just another honest confession).

The results show that multi-sites are multiplying across the world, and most importantly, are successfully enabling churches to reach more people with the Gospel in perhaps the most cost-effective manner, and that’s just for starters. The report is chock-full of interesting data and graphs and other goodies, again, for people like me who like to think and talk ‘church’.

I can’t post a copy of the full report here, but you can download your own from Leadership Network’s website here (you will have to register first) OR request an email copy here.

Just 5 more days until the grand opening of CLC-Lisle!

Fat bones!

Posted on September 2, 2010 by admin

Not talking about barbecue ribs (although that does sound good)…..but the truth of Proverbs 15:30 and the great report I just received from our Backyard Bible Clubs this summer:

172 in attendance at only 5 clubs, with 18 salvation decisions, including the mother of one of the children attending!

One child overheard to say, “I thought this would be boring, but it was the best Bible study ever!”

Every CLC host family reported how much fun it was & wants to participate again in 2011!

Kudos to Pastor Cheri Garrett and Deanna Mason and their entire team for all the work in making this possible! Enjoy a few pics:

proudly displaying their 'salvation' certificates

Afterglow!

Posted on August 31, 2010 by admin

Well, it’s a couple of days since Marilyn Hickey was with us at CLC, and I’m still enjoying the afterglow! She was everything her website says about her: encouraging, optimistic, upbeat & energetic….at 79 years old! I kept checking on her between services, etc., asking if she wanted to rest a bit, have some refreshments….but honestly, I think she had more energy than I did!

I’ve been thinking about some of her quotes:

“God thinks you can do anything”

“You give people flowers, they wilt; give ‘em chocolate, make ‘em fat; give ‘em the Word, change their life!”

“I’ve been married for 54 and a half years, and I can still fit into my wedding dress!”

“I just tell the devil, it’s not over until I win!”

She must have told me a dozen times, “I’m a pastor’s wife“. In fact, she told me at lunch that she had never been ordained; she just holds a license with the AoG. I mean, here’s a lady after my own heart: she hasn’t worried about titles or positions all these years because she’s been too busy teaching the Word and doing the stuff!

I loved how she illustrated the 3 Greek concepts of ‘wisdom’ by showing each one in the lives of Joseph, David & Esther – and she actually taught those principles in about 20 minutes per service! (I’m trying to make my sermons shorter, I really am – but wow, what an example!)

For me personally, the biggest takeaway was just the simple truth of holding onto the Word during the process. We all know it, but it seems we often struggle during the process and sometimes doubt the Word we received, or (oh me) complain about our circumstances, instead of just standing in faith & holding onto the Word.

I want to change. I want to be a better example of staying positive, remaining optimistic and just holding on to the Promise! I want to be more intentional about making friendships for the purpose of reaching people with the Gospel. I want to make a difference, like Marilyn has for the last 50+ years. And I think I want to invite her back to CLC, to do it all again!

How ’bout you?

DRATS!

Posted on August 26, 2010 by admin

Does anyone still use that word, or did I just date myself?

Anyway, it expresses how I feel, after just receiving a phone call from the Watoto Choir that I wrote about yesterday. It seems the US Embassy in Kampala will not give them an appointment to receive their visas until September 15, which effectively wipes out the first 2 weeks of their planned 6-month tour. The Watoto office even appealed through US Congressmen & Senators, to no avail.

So, as much as I hate it, the choir will NOT be performing at CLC in September as announced. They will visit us at the end of the tour next March, so it’s technically not a cancellation, just a postponement.

Of course, that doesn’t help with our planned opportunity on the heels of our ONE series, to give you a ‘good excuse’ to invite your unchurched friends to attend. (What is it they say about the best-laid plans of mice & men?)

Oh well. Nothing much left to say – except that I’m sorry we didn’t know sooner, before you started telling others about it. And we’ll look forward to March!

The Power of One

Posted on August 25, 2010 by admin

We’ve spent the entire month of August emphasizing the value & importance & power of ONE. Think of it: Jesus died so that even ONE could be saved.

Our plan is to follow up this emphasis with some “user-friendly” events that will be easy for you to invite your friends & co-workers to attend, and the first one is coming at the Tinley Park campus on September 12, when we’ll host the internationally-known Watoto Children’s Choir from Uganda!

These AIDS orphans have performed in various nations, before all kinds of audiences, including the White House, the parliaments of several nations, from Presidents to paupers (for instance, they’ll be appearing at Trinity College & at Navy Pier on this tour). Their cause is worthy. Their leader is a godly man who is leading an incredible ministry that is impacting Uganda. I’m honored that we get to host them at CLC.

Speaking of ‘hosting’, we do still need a few families who would be willing to keep a few of the kids & an adult chaperon overnight on Saturday, Sept. 11. If you’re interested, please let us know here.

Most importantly, this is one of those events that even unchurched folk will attend – the kids are that winsome & their story is that compelling. So start inviting NOW. You won’t regret it, I promise.

The celebration continues…..

Posted on August 24, 2010 by admin

If you’ve been around, you know CLC is celebrating our 20th anniversary ALL THIS YEAR, instead of just having one big party. Specifically, we decided to invite some of God’s “Generals” who have made significant impact on the body of Christ and have the wisdom and experience to impart to us during this 20th year.

This Sunday our special guest is noted teacher & author, Dr. Marilyn Hickey! Marilyn’s ministry track-record is pretty incredible (read about it here) – think about it: 78 years old & still going strong with the Gospel!

Spread the word!

invite a friend!

Plan to arrive early to get a good seat!

Let’s come expecting!

Summer Revival – this Wednesday

Posted on August 23, 2010 by admin

It’s that time of year: the days are getting shorter, the temps will soon be dropping, the kids are back in school, the Bears are being the Bears (oh, well) and we’re gearing up for a great Fall season of Life Groups and Equip U classes at CLC-Tinley Park.

But not so fast.

There’s still ONE Wednesday “Summer Revival” service left on the calendar before the Fall season begins – this Wednesday, August 25 – when Pastors Dan & Pat Johnson from our Shorewood campus will be the guest speakers. If you don’t know them, Dan & Pat were our Youth Pastors at CLC from 1999-2007, when they led the team to launch our first additional campus. They’ve been ‘favorites’ at CLC through all those years and Dan has the gift of encouragement, so I’m sure you’ll be built up in your faith this Wednesday.

I think this is the first time they’ve ministered in Tinley Park this year, so I hope you’ll join me in giving them a great CLC welcome this Wednesday!

PP on the devil!

Posted on August 18, 2010 by admin

Tonight really was a “Summer Revival” at CLC – in fact, as I type this, our youth are still going strong, sharing testimonies of what God did in them during Destiny Youth Camp 2010! I’ve heard from parents who say they’ve got brand-new kids since camp – so great was the transformation!

Meanwhile, our Hispanic Pastor, Jaime Flores preached in the adult service – “How Do You Battle Your Problems?”, using Acts 16:16-31 as his text. My favorite quote from his encouraging message was when he told us, to win our battles, we should PP on the devil!

In case you’re wondering, PP means “Pray & Praise”, which is exactly what Paul & Silas did, instead of complaining (as we’re so prone to do when things aren’t going our way)….and God showed up in a supernatural way! He. still. does. that. today.

One of my preacher friends often says, “If your experience with the Lord isn’t supernatural, it’s superficial“.

I’m glad we serve a BIG God! I’m enjoying these Wednesday summer revival services. Our final one for the season is next Wednesday when Pastors Dan & Pat Johnson will be ministering – hope you’ll join us. Now go PP on the devil! (thanks, Pasttor Jaime – we won’t forget that one)

The Blago trial & CLC

Posted on August 18, 2010 by admin

Probably like most of you, I’ve had a little interest over the last several weeks in the trial of former Governor Rod Blagojevich that ended in a mistrial yesterday on 23 of 24 counts. But as the news came out from the jurors about their deliberations, it sure seems like the Blago trial is helping us preach.

Think about it: were it not for one person, Gov. Blagojevich would be looking at a long prison sentence today. One jury kept the panel from a conviction. One person stood against the prosecution. One woman enabled our ex-Governor to remain a free man (at least until the retrial).

The power of ONE. That’s what we’re talking about this entire month of August, and I’m excited about the remaining two messages in the series. THIS Sunday, we’re going to dig even deeper into the parables Jesus gave us in Luke 15 and look at the unique & different kinds of people we’re reaching for, and how we can most effectively reach “One Like These”. I hope you’ll join us at any campus & get the scoop on the difference YOU can make as ONE person (even without serving on a jury).

And of course you’re invited to join us for our annual PICNIC afterwards – get your tickets here.

Thrice Triple Three Today

Posted on August 16, 2010 by admin

I was trying too hard to think of a headline for the 3 things on my mind this morning…..way too hard, since what I wrote above would actually be 27, and that’s not what’s on my mind, so forget it. Just take note of these details as a follow-up from yesterday’s services:

1. Celebrate Recovery – to learn more about this wonderful life-giving ministry, read here. I’m so excited that we’re launching this ministry at the Tinley Park campus NEXT MONTH, and if you’re interested in serving on the team, please contact Clarence or Carolyn Johnson here, or just call our office.

2. ALL-CHURCH PICNIC this Sunday, August 22 – this is always the biggest fellowship event of the year at CLC, and bringing all 4 campuses together makes it even more fun. Besides the opportunity to see friends from each campus AND talk with friends who are part of your church family but perhaps worship at a different service time than you, we’ll have something for everyone (literally). Here’s a sample of what’s happening:

pie-eating contest
mother/daughter 3-legged race
father/son tug-o-war
hula hoop contest
crab soccer (what’s crab soccer? Never mind, I’m from Arkansas)

Not to mention a baking contest, a barbecue contest and LOTS of GOOD FOOD!

If you did not get your tickets yet, please go online now & do so in order for us to make adequate food preparation. It’s quick & easy to do – just click here now! Thanks!

By the way, if you need directions to Camp Manitoqua in Frankfort, click here.

3. Pastor Jaime Flores is preaching THIS Wednesday at 7:30pm! We weren’t able to announce it during our services yesterday, but the pastor of our Hispanic congregation will be speaking (in English) for our Summer Revival service this Wednesday. Pastor Jaime always has a good word and plenty of passion, so come and get your own fire stoked Wednesday night! (There’s ministry for your children & youth as well, so bring the whole family!)

Home, sweet home!

Posted on August 14, 2010 by admin

Well, I’m back from Destiny Youth Camp and ready to get a little rest before tomorrow’s 3 services & a Newcomer’s Luncheon. Just thought I’d post a few more pics from this morning’s session at Camp. Enjoy!